Babalanda cautions Kigezi RDCs on partisan politics, corruption

The Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda, has warned Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) in the Kigezi Sub-region against engaging in divisive politics.

She emphasised that RDCs, as representatives of the President in their respective districts, must remain politically neutral to uphold the integrity of their office.

Babalanda made the remarks on February 19, 2025, while opening a three-day workshop for RDCs at Cephas Inn, Kabale.

She noted that her office receives frequent complaints from the public about RDCs being involved in partisan politics, which she described as unfortunate.

“You should avoid dividing our people because of politics, as this ultimately weakens the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government. Many of you engage in this behaviour due to selfish interests, spreading rumours from camp to camp. It is better to avoid this and concentrate on what is required of you,” said Babalanda.

Crackdown on corruption

The minister also warned RDCs against engaging in corruption, stating that those found guilty will face consequences.

“I have been guiding you via Zoom meetings and circulars regarding corruption. You should not be part of it, as representatives of the President, you must be exemplary in fighting corruption at all levels. I know this war comes with intimidation, but you must remain focused. Corruption is a disease in this country and an enemy of development,” asserted Babalanda.

She further condemned the practice of some RDCs commissioning incomplete government projects, vowing to take stronger action against those involved.

Call for unity

Babalanda urged RDCs in the region to work together to improve service delivery.

RDCs in a photo group with Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda in a group photograph

“I have always advocated for teamwork among you for effective service delivery. However, I still hear about conflicts among RDCs in Kigezi. Some RDCs fight their deputies and assistants, and vice versa. We serve one government with the same interests, so why should you fight each other?” she wondered.

Strengthening the role of RDCs

According to Maj. Martha Asiimwe, head of the RDC Secretariat at the Office of the Presidency, the workshop aims to equip RDCs with skills in supervision, monitoring, mobilisation, and effective representation of the central government and the President.

Asiimwe explained that the training would help RDCs refocus on critical government programmes and projects to ensure their successful implementation.

“This workshop aims to equip RDCs with appropriate skills and tools to enhance their operations in their respective districts. It also provides an opportunity to engage with them and address the challenges affecting their field operations,” said Asiimwe.

Appreciation for Babalanda’s Leadership

Kabale RDC Godfrey Nyakahuma, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, commended Babalanda for her leadership in strengthening the institution of the Presidency.

“Honourable minister, I take this opportunity to appreciate you for organising such engagements regularly. A similar engagement was held last year in Mbarara, and we left well-equipped to execute our mandate. Such engagements provide a structured platform for teams to collaborate, share information, make decisions, solve problems, and align on priorities for effective service delivery,” said Nyakahuma.

The mandate of RDCs

The RDC’s office serves as the first district-level anti-corruption office. Article 203 of the 1995 Constitution provides for the establishment of the office of the Resident District/City Commissioner, with key responsibilities including monitoring the implementation of government services, chairing district security committees, and carrying out other functions assigned by the President or Parliament.

The Local Government Act of 1997 mandates RDCs to represent the President in their districts, coordinate government services, advise district leaders on national matters, and monitor local government activities.

Additionally, the National Security Council Act of 2000 establishes RDCs as heads of District Security and Intelligence Committees, working closely with security agencies to combat crime.

Beyond these responsibilities, RDCs implement presidential directives, mobilise communities on key issues such as pandemic awareness, land management, and economic development, and must be well-versed in relevant laws to execute their duties effectively.