The Speaker of the Parliament, Anita Annet Among, has raised concerns regarding the criteria used to select and appoint the recent Assistant Resident District Commissioners (RDCs). During the plenary sessions on April 23, 2024, Speaker Among asked Milly Babalanda, the Minister of Presidency, to clarify the matter in the House.
The issue was brought to light by Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of Opposition (LoP), who expressed doubts about the character of some of the newly appointed individuals to these positions. In response to the public’s concerns, Speaker Among has requested a report from the Minister of Presidency on the recent appointments of RDCs, Resident City Commissioners (RCCs), and their deputies.
“I have requested a report from the Minister for the Presidency regarding the recent appointments of RDCs, RCCs, and their deputies. This request is in response to public concerns about the eligibility of some of the appointees. The report is expected to be presented tomorrow,” stated Speaker Among.
Denis Hamson Obua, the Government Chief Whip, pleaded for Parliament to grant the government time to provide a statement explaining the matter. He expressed the need for clarification on the appointment of Assistant RDCs and Assistant RCCs, including their roles and responsibilities. Additionally, Obua shed light on the government’s decision to empower these offices further in the districts.
The President’s Office recently recruited Assistant RDCs and Assistant RCCs on April 21, 2024, to offer support in carrying out activities within their respective offices. However, the appointment process has come under scrutiny, prompting the Speaker of Parliament to call for an explanation.