Masaka Councillors Demand Salary Hike Amidst Payment Delays and Steep Deductions

Local council leaders in Masaka District and Masaka City have voiced strong dissatisfaction with their current remuneration, calling for an urgent salary review. They argue that their monthly earnings are insufficient to cover the demands of their roles, which include monitoring government programs and ensuring effective service delivery.

Compounding the issue of low pay are significant concerns regarding delayed salary disbursements and substantial deductions. Councillors report that after extensive deductions, their take-home pay is drastically reduced, leaving them with minimal funds for personal needs and official duties. One specific concern raised was the monthly transport allowance of Shs 17,000, which is deemed inadequate for covering travel expenses to council meetings and for monitoring government projects.

The leaders emphasized that sufficient financial facilitation is crucial for their oversight functions, particularly in the fight against corruption, as they need resources to hold program implementers accountable.

During a training program aimed at enhancing their performance, councillors highlighted that while skills are important, inadequate pay hinders their ability to serve effectively. They pointed out that some Members of Parliament rely on their reports but fail to provide the necessary support for such monitoring.

Concerns were also raised about the slow pace of government program implementation in the region, with funds reportedly released but activities yet to commence. Mayor Hajjati Zaina Nakidde of Kyanamukaaka Town Council added that limited locally collected revenue further strains the capacity of local governments to meet service delivery demands.

Officials present at the training, including an assistant to former Vice President Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, acknowledged the councillors’ grievances and pledged to address their concerns regarding remuneration and payment delays. They urged patience and cooperation among leaders to foster development.

Despite assurances, the councillors maintained that improved skills training must be coupled with adequate financial support, timely payments, and sufficient resources to effectively carry out their mandates and address community challenges.

Source: Nile Post