GULU, Uganda – Col. Emmy Katabazi, the Deputy Director General of the Internal Security Organisation (ISO), has issued a strong warning to resident district and city commissioners about the detrimental effects of infighting. Speaking at a capacity-building meeting on August 6, 2024, Katabazi urged the commissioners to focus on their responsibilities and work together for the betterment of the community.
The meeting, held at Bomah Hotel, includes resident district commissioners (RDCs), resident city commissioners (RCCs), Gombolola Internal Security Officers (GISOs), and district internal security officers (DISOs). This training is set to conclude on August 8, 2024.
Katabazi emphasized that the President appointed RDCs, RCCs, and district security leaders to lead and advance the country’s progress. He criticized the ongoing internal disputes among these officials and stressed the need to prioritize meaningful activities over ‘useless fights’ that do not contribute to national development.
He also highlighted concerns about the management of government funds and urged the commissioners to closely monitor all government programs, including educational institutions, to prevent corruption. “We expect reports indicating that schools are performing well and children are studying effectively,” Katabazi said.
Assistant Commissioner for Finance and Planning in the Office of the President, Sadat Kisuyi, echoed Katabazi’s sentiments, advising RDCs and RCCs to enhance their collaboration with district leaders to manage programs more effectively. Kisuyi emphasized that successful management requires efficiency, proactivity, and coordination.
Lt. Col. Kibrai Ambako, Senior Presidential Advisor on Mobilization, recommended that RDCs and RCCs participate in budget planning meetings to better understand district progress and challenges.
In discussions about combating corruption, Wilbert Opiyo, Deputy RCC of Gulu, suggested that changing mindsets is crucial for effective anti-corruption efforts. Morris Ocaka, Assistant RDC of Agago, supported coordination as an effective strategy, recalling its success during the Lord’s Resistance Army insurgency. Christine Atimango, an assistant RDC, expressed appreciation for the training, believing it would help resolve many issues faced by commissioners.
