Mbarara City has been buzzing with protests regarding the quality of services provided within its bounds in recent news reports. Concerns have been raised about the efficiency and effectiveness of the city’s operations. Responding to these grievances, the Mbarara City Council has taken a significant step towards resolving these issues by deciding to enlist the support of the Ibanda District Service Commission for the recruitment of staff.
The decision was reached during a council meeting convened at the city council hall. In a display of unanimity, the councilors collectively agreed to engage the services of the Ibanda District Service Commission, viewing it as a crucial measure to uplift service delivery standards within the city.
Prior to this resolution, the council had made the decision to suspend three members of the City Service Commission. This action stemmed from serious allegations of corruption and misconduct attributed to Edward Karugaba Kikaraya, Lubega M. Kazooba, and Benjamin Kahigiriza, the implicated individuals. These accusations led to their arrest in September, following public outcry and dissatisfaction.
Presenting the City Executive Committee report during the council session, Mayor Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi disclosed the decision to suspend the aforementioned members pending the outcome of their trial. He emphasized the necessity of this measure in ensuring transparency and accountability within the city’s administrative framework.
Mayor Kakyebezi further urged the council to seek assistance from the Ibanda District Service Commission to address the prevalent staff shortages, particularly within the education department. This move was seen as crucial in bridging the manpower gaps and bolstering the city’s operational capacity.
Despite the consensus among councilors, John Kavigi, representing the youth in Mbarara City, voiced his reservations regarding the interdiction of the officials. He argued against the procedural correctness of such action, citing the ongoing legal proceedings as a factor that should be considered before any disciplinary measures are taken.
In response, Bonny Tashobya, the Speaker of Mbarara City Council, reiterated the urgent need to address the staffing issues plaguing the city. He emphasized that the absence of adequate personnel was directly impeding service delivery, warranting immediate action. Tashobya assured that the interdiction of the service commission members would not impede the judicial process.
Augustine Atwijukye Kagutiya, Chairperson of the Mbarara City Service Commission, refrained from providing comments when approached regarding the council’s decision. His silence on the matter hinted at the sensitivity and complexity surrounding the ongoing developments within the city’s administrative circles.
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