RUBIRIZI — The Rubirizi District Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Dr. Esawo Mulongo, has warned newly elected Local Council (LC) chairpersons against misusing government tools of work, saying those found using official stamps and documents for illegal activities will be arrested and prosecuted.
Dr. Mulongo made the remarks during an orientation workshop and swearing-in ceremony for newly elected village chairpersons held at the Rubirizi District headquarters.
The training was aimed at equipping the new local council leaders with knowledge about their roles and responsibilities as they begin their term of office.
Dr. Mulongo said the district had handed over official tools of work, including stamps and other documents, to the newly elected chairpersons to enable them to effectively serve residents.
However, he warned that the tools must only be used for lawful government business.
He cautioned LC leaders against using official stamps to facilitate illegal land transactions, extort money from residents or engage in other activities that could tarnish government records.
According to Dr. Mulongo, misuse of government stamps and documents has contributed to family conflicts, domestic violence and an increase in court cases related to land disputes in the district.
Meanwhile, Rubirizi District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Jeniva Arinaitwe, urged LC leaders to stop the illegal sale of residents’ land without the consent of family members.
Arinaitwe called on the new chairpersons to protect the rights of residents by following the proper legal procedures when handling land-related matters.
She also urged the leaders to serve with integrity, transparency and accountability and avoid actions that could deprive residents of their property.
Agaba Obed Byakureka congratulated the newly elected chairpersons upon their victory and reminded them of the responsibility they carry as the first line of leadership at village level.
He urged them to serve honestly, lead by example and avoid divisionism, while encouraging them to work closely with district authorities to monitor government projects and fight corruption and poverty.
Byakureka further called upon the new LC leaders to work with district leadership to promote development and help resolve conflicts within their communities.
