The former state minister of finance for planning, David Bahati, has challenged the newly sworn in Kabale leaders to avoid tribal, political and religious differences for the development of the district.

Bahati said since the election cycle ended, people need to focus on developing their homes and district, saying the future of Uganda will be shaped by what happens not just in Kampala, but also in Kabale.

He said elections come with a lot of baggage, such as exchange of tough words, propaganda and lies and sometimes conflicts, but now is the time to forget all that and focus on the common good for effective delivery of services for socio- economic transformation of the people of Kabale and Uganda.

“Diversity should be a source of strength, not division. As Banyakigezi, we all share common aspirations to live in peace and security; to access education and economic opportunity to end poverty; to love our families and our faith. That is our destiny that is well-embedded in our National Resistance Movement (NRM) principles of patriotism. Pan-Africanism, socio-economic transformation and democracy,” Bahati said.

He made the remarks during the swearing-in ceremony for the new Kabale district council and district chairperson, Nelson Nshangabasheija.

The function was presided over by Julius Kyaka Borore, the Kabale Chief Magistrate, at Kabale district headquarters.

Bahati said as new leaders, they have a duty to implement the NRM manifesto to benefit all the people.

Nshangabasheija promised to put in place initiatives to help stimulate productivity at the household level to boost people’s income and livelihoods.

He asked the people to embrace government programmes, such as the parish model.  

He nominated Miria Tugume, the female councillor representing Butanda, as his deputy.