Mukono District Local Government on Friday officially ushered in a new chapter of leadership as the newly elected District Chairperson, Hon. Francis Lukooya Mukoome, together with 44 District Councillors, took the Oath of Allegiance and Oath of Office during a formal swearing-in ceremony marked by calls for servant leadership, unity, and commitment to service delivery.
The memorable ceremony began with prayers led by religious leaders from different denominations, including the Provost of St. Philip and Andrew’s Cathedral, The Very Rev. Canon Godfrey Ssengendo, who represented the Bishop of Mukono Diocese.
The swearing-in was conducted by Chief Magistrate Her Worship Nassozi Rehema Ssebowa, following the official reading of the elected leaders’ names by the Mukono District Returning Officer from the Electoral Commission.
Following the oath-taking, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Mukono District, Mr. Ddamba Henry, officially handed over the instruments of office to the newly sworn-in District Chairperson, including the office keys, official vehicle, district stamp, the Constitution, Local Government Acts, and the District Status Report. He also appreciated all stakeholders who supported the successful organization of the ceremony and introduced the organizing committee and heads of departments.
The event was attended by the Minister of Works and Transport, Hon. Gen. Dr. Edward Katumba Wamala, Mukono RDC Hajjati Fatuma Ndisaba Nabitaka and her Deputy Muyambi Moses, District NRM Chairperson Hajji Haruna Ssemakula, the district technical team led by CAO Ddamba Henry and Deputy CAO Mr. Muhumuza Stephen, political leaders from different parties, and residents from across Mukono District.
During the first council sitting held immediately after the swearing-in, the election of the District Speaker was presided over by the Chief Magistrate. The race featured Hon. Muhumuza Asuman (NRM) and Hon. Robert Mwesigwa Ssentongo (NUP), with Hon. Asuman Muhumuza emerging victorious as the new District Speaker of Mukono District Local Government Council. He subsequently took the Oath of Speakership and received the instrument of authority from the Chief Administrative Officer.
For the position of Deputy Speaker, Hon. Gashegu Muramira (NRM) contested against Hon. George Stanley Muwonge (NUP) from Kyampisi Sub-county, with Hon. Gashegu Muramira elected as the new Deputy Speaker.
In his first official address to the Council, in accordance with the Local Government Act Cap. 138, Hon. Francis Lukooya Mukoome nominated members of his executive committee, who were later approved by the Council. These included:
1.Hon. Tumwesige Innocent – Vice Chairperson, Mukono District Local Government (Ntenjeru Kisoga Town Council)
2. Hon. Tonny Kalyango – Secretary for Finance, Planning and Administration(District Male Youth Councilor)
3.Hon. Anna Lubuulwa – Secretary for Health, Education and Community-Based Services(Nagojje Sub county)
4. Hon. Nakaddu Winfred – Secretary for Works and Production(Kimenyedde Sub County)
In his speech, Hon. Lukooya outlined his priorities for the district, including the repair of all district graders, revamping communal road gangs, acquiring new road equipment, expanding electricity and clean water access to all communities, improving housing and land management, environmental protection, fisheries and veterinary services, trade and community development, youth empowerment, strengthening Mukono General Hospital, improving education and sports, and enhancing administration and financial management across municipalities and town councils.
In her remarks, Mukono RDC Hajjati Fatuma Ndisaba Nabitaka urged the newly elected District Council to work diligently in implementing the NRM Government Manifesto, noting that it contains key programmes capable of transforming Mukono District.
She emphasized that many of Mukono’s development priorities are reflected in the National Development Plan and encouraged councillors to work closely with the district technical staff through cooperation and strategic lobbying to attract resources and government support.
Meanwhile, Mukono District NRM Chairperson Hajji Haruna Ssemakula dismissed claims questioning the legitimacy of Hon. Francis Lukooya Mukoome’s victory, emphasizing that the Chairperson rightfully won and commands a clear majority in the District Council, with strong support from 27 councillors.
He called on those dissatisfied with the election outcome to accept the democratic process and allow the new leadership to focus on serving the people rather than engaging in unnecessary disputes.
Speaking as the Chief Guest, Hon. Gen. Dr. Edward Katumba Wamala urged the newly sworn-in leaders to understand that leadership is not about titles or prestige, but about service, hard work, and setting a good example.
He reminded them that they are not rulers, but servants entrusted with the responsibility of improving the lives of the people. He encouraged them to mobilize residents to actively participate in government programmes and challenged them to prioritize tangible development projects in their communities.
The Minister also called on leaders to avoid conflicts and divisions and instead embrace unity and cooperation for the benefit of Mukono District. He pledged his continued support and commitment to the district’s growth and development.
The swearing-in of Hon. Francis Lukooya Mukoome and the new Mukono District leadership marks the beginning of a new chapter built on servant leadership, accountability, and commitment to development.
Leaders have been reminded that true leadership is not about power or recognition, but about serving the people with integrity, humility, and dedication. With renewed calls for unity, cooperation, and effective implementation of government programmes, Mukono District now looks ahead with hope for stronger service delivery, inclusive development, and meaningful transformation for all its residents.
