New Kikuube chairperson Kisembo pledges to fight land grabbing, boost services

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Paddy Kisembo of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has been sworn in as Kikuube district chairperson following his victory in the June 18 by-election, replacing the late Peter Banura.

He defeated Fenekansi Timanyire of the National Unity Platform (NUP), securing 26,612 votes against 8,712.

The ceremony, held at Kikuube district headquarters in Kisembo village, Kiziranfumbi, Kikuube town council on July 3, 2026, ran from 10:00 am to 8:30 pm and began with a Holy Mass led by Hoima Catholic Diocese vicar general Monsignor Robert Mugisa.

In his sermon, Monsignor Mugisa called on leaders to prioritise forgiveness as a foundation for unity, citing Colossians 3:12–17. He emphasised that forgiveness, though difficult, is essential as it reflects God’s expectation of his people.

The newly sworn-in Kikuube district chairman, Paddy Kisembo, poses for a photo with the clergy and the state minister for Bunyoro affairs, Mary Mugasa. (Photo by Peter Abaanabasazi)

After the Mass, the swearing-in of the chairperson and his 26 councillors began at 2:00 pm and was presided over by Hoima Chief Magistrate George Kunihira.

Following the swearing-in, Kunihira oversaw the election of the district speaker. During the process, Deo Karubanga, the councillor for Buhimba sub-county, was elected speaker after defeating Susan Kabasindi, the female councillor for Buhimba town council.

Karubanga polled 14 votes, while Kabasindi secured 13 votes.

He was later declared Kikuube district speaker at around 6:00 pm. The council then elected Simon Byamukama as deputy speaker.

During the council sitting, Kisembo appointed Vicente Opio as district vice chairperson.

Kaahwa Mugati was appointed secretary for finance, planning and administration, Lydia Kabahemba was appointed secretary for social services, while Susan Kabasindi, who had lost the speakership race, was appointed secretary for production, natural resources, and works and engineering.

Speaking after his swearing-in, Kisembo thanked the people of Kikuube for electing him and pledged inclusive leadership.

He said Kikuube is a district of diverse tribes and religions and promised to foster unity to drive development.

He also pledged to strengthen collaboration with technical staff to ensure effective implementation of council resolutions and government programmes.

Kisembo further committed to prioritising service delivery, particularly in education, agriculture, health, and the fight against land grabbing.

He added that he would mobilise youth to participate in government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model, the Youth Livelihood Programme and Emyooga.

He also pledged to promote vocational skills training among young people to help them create employment opportunities instead of seeking jobs.

Speaking as chief guest, Bunyoro affairs state minister Grace Mary Mugasa congratulated Kisembo and his council, urging them to set aside differences and focus on serving the electorate.

She noted that several government and oil development projects are ongoing in the district and called for mobilisation of communities to benefit from them for social and economic transformation.

Kikuube district woman MP Florence Natumanya pledged her support to the new leadership, saying she would work with them to build an inclusive and progressive district.