Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Tororo, Mr. Albert Amula, has issued a no-nonsense warning to all civil servants about the perils of tardiness and absenteeism.
During the commissioning of new administrative blocks for Akadot and Merikit lower local governments, Amula made it clear that the days of lounging around and picking up a government paycheck for minimal effort are officially over.
With a stern face and a tone that could cut through the thickest Matooke stem, Mr. Amula addressed the gathered officials. “Now that we have tackled the challenge of office space,” he said, gesturing grandly towards the new buildings, “it’s time for you to tackle the challenge of actually showing up to work. I’m talking to you, community development officers—don’t let these new offices become ghost towns!”
Amula’s message was as clear as the Nile on a sunny day: civil servants who think they can continue their practice of arriving late, or not at all, while still enjoying their monthly salary might soon find themselves out of a job. “The government has generously enhanced your salaries,” Amula pointed out, “but this increase is for those who actually want to work. The time of staying home, indulging in private errands, and still collecting a government paycheck is over. It’s time to earn your keep.”
Amula urged the LC3 chairperson to ensure that any officers who continue to flout the rules are reported to the chief administrative officer for some well-deserved disciplinary action. He made it clear that being late or absent is no longer a matter of personal choice but a serious breach of duty.
On the brighter side of things, Amula commended the contractors for completing the new administrative blocks on time and sticking to the agreed bill of quantities. It seems they might have set a new standard for punctuality and quality—something many of the civil servants in question could learn from.
District LCV Vice Chairperson Rebecca Akumu took the opportunity to thank the government for its support in building these new offices. She reminisced about the days when sub-county offices were set up under trees, and pointed out that many new sub-counties are at risk of eviction due to unpaid rent. “We know some sub-counties are still struggling with rent payments,” she admitted, “but with these new structures, we expect a lot more accountability and commitment.”
In addition to the administrative offices, the team also commissioned a new one-classroom block at Apokor Primary School in Merikit Sub-County, a small but significant step towards improving educational facilities in the area.
So, to all the civil servants out there: take note. The era of the “no-show, no-problem” approach is officially over. It’s time to roll up your sleeves, show up on time, and get to work, or face the consequences.
