By Henry Okello
TORORO
In the wake of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s recent approval for the creation of three new districts in Tororo, tensions are rising in the proposed Greater West Budama North district regarding the location of its headquarters.
The decision to place the headquarters in Kisoko sub-county has faced significant backlash from residents in the western parts of the area, who argue that the choice lacks logic and fairness.
Locals from Soni, Kirewa, Katajula, Paya, Nawire, Sop Sop, and Nagongera Town Council have voiced strong support for the headquarters to be established in Nagongera Town Council, asserting that it is a more central and accessible location for the majority of residents.
However, a faction of leaders, including West Budama North, MP Max Ochai and Jago of Padola, Josel Richard Obbo, advocate for Kisoko as the headquarters, igniting a heated debate within the community.
Leading the charge against the Kisoko proposal is Bernard Osinde Mopendi, a concerned local resident who has organized a series of protests to highlight the inadequacies of the chosen site.
Mopendi argues passionately that Kisoko, located near Tororo Town, does not adequately serve the needs of West Budama residents. He contends that placing the headquarters there undermines the very purpose of establishing the new district to bring services closer to the people.
In response to the outcry, Mopendi is actively collecting signatures from dissatisfied community members to bolster their petition against the Kisoko headquarters proposal.
The aim is to present their grievances to both the office of the Speaker of Parliament and the district leadership, led by Speaker Betty Andrea.
“We are not against the creation of the new district, but we believe that a logical and fair decision must be made regarding the location of the headquarters,” Mopendi stated. “It is crucial that our voices are heard and that the decision-makers recognize the importance of accessibility and equity for all residents of Greater West Budama North.”
As the debate heats up, many residents are calling for urgent dialogue to address their concerns and ensure that the establishment of the new district truly benefits the entire community.
