New Soroti district leadership pledges service delivery, transparency

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A new political leadership has officially taken charge in Soroti district, with newly elected leaders pledging to prioritise accountability, service delivery and development following their swearing-in ceremony at the district headquarters.

The ceremony marked the formal assumption of office by the new district leadership headed by LC5 chairperson Bob Owiny, who vowed to restore effective governance and strengthen public trust in the district administration.

The oath was administered by Soroti Chief Magistrate Hilda Bakanansa Walaga, who urged the leaders to remain faithful to the commitments they made to voters during the campaign period.

“You are taking this oath using the Bible. Remember the pledges you made to the people and serve them diligently,” Walaga said.

Speaking during the ceremony on May 18, 2026, district presiding officer Joseph Mukwaya reminded the leaders of the responsibility entrusted to them by the electorate.

“As you take the oath of secrecy and office, remember what you promised the people,” Mukwaya said.

“You must create a bridge between leaders and the community and work towards the development of Soroti district.”

Mukwaya also urged the new council to focus on fulfilling its mandate and ensuring effective service delivery across the district.

Soroti District comprises 12 sub-counties, including Arapai, Asuret, Aukot, Awaliwal, Gweri, Kamuda, Katine, Lalle, Ocokican, Oculoi, Soroti and Tubur.

In his maiden speech, Owiny pledged to promote transparency, accountability and teamwork in the district administration.

“I want a well-organised district run on truth and accountability,” he said.

Owiny also committed to working closely with the district security committee to maintain peace and stability, adding that his administration would prioritise education, healthcare and road infrastructure.

Running under the slogan “Reclaiming the Lost Glory,” Owiny unveiled part of his executive team shortly after taking oath.

He appointed Ronald Ewou, the councillor representing Aukot subcounty, as district vice chairperson.

Solomon Edolu Echaloit, councillor representing Ocokican, was appointed secretary for finance, planning and administration, while Francis Orisa, councillor for Arapai subcounty, was named secretary for works, production and technical services.

Christine Polot, councillor representing Gweri County, was appointed secretary for social and community-based services.

Soroti resident district commissioner Imran Muluga pledged government support to the new leadership in implementing development programmes.

Muluga urged the leaders to embrace hard work in line with President Yoweri Museveni’s slogan of “kisanja no sleep” in the fight against poverty.

He also called on district leaders to take an active role in resolving persistent land disputes within communities.

“We expect you to work closely with the people and help resolve conflicts, especially land wrangles, through dialogue and fairness,” Muluga said.

The swearing-in ceremony attracted district officials, political leaders, religious leaders and residents, reflecting high expectations for the new administration as it begins its term in office.