Ntungamo Mayor Vows to Confront Drunken Councillors

Ntungamo Municipality Mayor Jacob Kafureka has declared he will not tolerate councillors attending official meetings under the influence of alcohol, signaling a zero-tolerance policy against disruptive behavior that hinders governance and service delivery.

During the swearing-in ceremony for 18 municipal councillors on Friday, Mayor Kafureka expressed concern over a noticeable decline in the integrity of some officials. He stated that councillors sometimes attend meetings intoxicated, believing it would allow them to ‘see’ the mayor. “Imagine getting drunk to disturb the mayor, you will come drunk and find me prepared for you. I will not be threatened,” Kafureka asserted.

Kafureka, who is serving his fourth term as mayor since Ntungamo’s elevation in 2010, emphasized the importance of unity, mutual respect, and cooperation between political leaders and technocrats. He urged councillors to respect one another and the current government.

The mayor acknowledged past issues within the council, including disruptions during meetings and demands for accountability concerning public projects. The previous term was marked by allegations of financial mismanagement on projects like a Shs100 million gate that collapsed shortly after construction, an unfinished Shs400 million monument, and delayed road projects.

Concerns were also raised about the reported theft of a municipal road roller and the write-off of Shs3 billion worth of donated garbage collection equipment. Mariam Kagaiga Mugisha advised councillors to prioritize transparency and honesty to rebuild public trust, stating that these virtues are essential for leaders.

Following the ceremony, Francis Twesigye was elected council speaker, with Sincere Nahumuza as his deputy. Edidah Kemirembe Kanuma was appointed deputy mayor, and other executive positions went to Elias Mugume Mukungu, Joniva Kobusingye, and Robert Tibikumbagaza. Samuel Mucunguzi stressed the need for cooperation with district leadership, cautioning against isolated operations. The Chief Magistrate also warned councillors against abusing their authority by passing unlawful resolutions.

This article is based on information from the Daily Monitor.