Arua city leaders sworn in, mayor Alionzi unveils ambitious road agenda

ARUA - Arua city has officially ushered in a new political chapter as newly elected councillors and mayor Alionzi Lawrence Dangote were sworn into office in a ceremony attended by religious leaders, government officials and residents at Mayor Garden in Arua city.

The colourful ceremony also witnessed the constitution of the new City Executive Committee, with mayor Alionzi outlining an ambitious agenda centred on trade promotion, road infrastructure and youth economic empowerment.

Incumbent speaker Teddy Yako retained her seat after defeating Hitler Alioni, the male workers’ representative, in a tightly contested race. Yako garnered 11 votes against Alioni's seven, earning another term to preside over council business.

In her acceptance speech, Yako thanked councillors for entrusting her with leadership once again and pledged to serve the city diligently and without segregation.

“I thank my fellow councillors for the confidence they have shown in me. I promise to serve all people equally and ensure unity within the council and the city,” Yako said.

The swearing-in ceremony attracted prominent religious leaders, including retired Archbishop of Uganda Luke Orombi, Bishop Collins Andaku of Madi-West Nile Diocese and Arua district Kadhi Abu Jafar Shaban.

Addressing the gathering, mayor Alionzi pledged to prioritise the improvement of the city road network to boost trade and business operations.

“There must be physical infrastructure to facilitate economic growth, and among these is the road network. I dream of doubling the tarmac road network in Arua city over the next five years,” Alionzi said.

Incumbent speaker Teddy Yako retained her seat after defeating Hitler Alioni, the male workers’ representative, in a tightly contested race. Yako garnered 11 votes against Alioni's seven, earning another term to preside over council business. (Credit: John Paul Opio)

However, the mayor noted that infrastructure alone should not be mistaken for development.

“The true measure of development is the economic welfare of our people. A tarmac road only becomes meaningful when it improves the lives of ordinary citizens,” he added.

Alionzi further revealed that he and the councillors had agreed to embark on what he described as a “non-official mission of wealth creation” aimed at improving livelihoods, especially among young people.

Retired Archbishop Orombi urged the new leaders to govern with courage, wisdom and integrity.

“Seek God’s guidance and endeavour to be bold and courageous leaders as you serve the people of Arua city,” Orombi advised.

Meanwhile, resident city commissioner Betty Otekat raised concerns over rising urban crime in the city and called for collective efforts to restore order and security.

“We shall maintain an environment where business can thrive, and public programmes can be implemented transparently. To the incoming mayor and councillors, our doors remain open. We are here to support service delivery to our people,” Otekat said.

She also urged leaders to set aside political differences and focus on unity and development for the benefit of Arua city residents.

The mayor later unveiled his executive committee, appointing Jackson Dratibi as deputy mayor, Ayaba Joseph as secretary for social and community services, Rashid Onzima as secretary for works, production and technical services, and Onyiru Doreen as secretary for administration and finance.