Citing Article 164 of the Constitution, he reminded the trainers that public officials can be held personally accountable for the loss or misuse of public resources resulting from actions contrary to established laws and regulations.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Local Government, Ben Kumumanya, has called on trainers preparing to induct newly elected Local Government Council leaders to make the training practical, participatory and relevant to the challenges they will encounter in their communities.
Speaking during a Training of Trainers in Masaka, Kumumanya drew on more than three decades of experience in Uganda’s decentralisation system, sharing practical lessons and approaches from his extensive work with local governments.
He urged the trainers to move beyond classroom presentations and equip council leaders with practical knowledge that will help them effectively perform their roles once they assume office.
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Kumumanya noted that the trainers would be working with leaders from diverse backgrounds, with varying levels of experience and understanding of local governance. He therefore challenged them to facilitate meaningful discussions and create space for participants to share experiences and learn from one another.
Drawing from his experience working with Local Government Councils, Kumumanya highlighted approaches to managing disagreements, promoting constructive dialogue and strengthening democratic governance.
He emphasised the importance of respecting majority decisions while protecting minority views and pursuing consensus where possible to ensure councils function effectively.
Kumumanya also urged the trainers to emphasise Government’s commitment to fighting corruption and promoting accountability in public office.
Citing Article 164 of the Constitution, he reminded the trainers that public officials can be held personally accountable for the loss or misuse of public resources resulting from actions contrary to established laws and regulations.
He said accountability can extend beyond a leader’s tenure in office, urging trainers to ensure newly elected council leaders understand from the outset that public office carries a responsibility to citizens and requires prudent management of public resources.
The Permanent Secretary further tasked trainers with encouraging councils to support and provide oversight for Government programmes aimed at improving household incomes and reducing poverty.
He cited programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, among other socio-economic transformation initiatives, stressing that councils have a role in mobilising communities, providing oversight and ensuring that such programmes deliver tangible benefits to citizens.
In his closing remarks, Kumumanya urged the trainers to act as ambassadors of Government when they reach the field, ensuring that the messages from the induction are effectively passed on to council leaders.
He said the trainers should encourage councils to work together constructively, respect each other’s roles and prioritise effective service delivery for the benefit of citizens.
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