Rwakimaari criticises Ntungamo departments over opaque budget details

Ruhaama County MP Beatrice Rwakimaari has challenged technical departments in Ntungamo District to step up their financial transparency. Speaking during the district’s budget conference for the 2027/2028 financial year at the district council hall, Rwakimaari expressed concern over budget presentations that lack clear breakdowns of funds received, spent, and projected.

The legislator emphasized that without precise information regarding departmental allocations and expenditures, elected leaders struggle to scrutinize public funds properly. She noted that current presentations fail to clearly verify whether previous allocations achieved their intended results or what specific financial gaps remain for the upcoming fiscal year.

Furthermore, Rwakimaari called for capacity building among local government technical staff to improve future budget reporting formats. She also urged local councillors to rigorously exercise their oversight mandate to guarantee value for money and ensure that public resources directly improve community service delivery.

Beyond financial accountability, the MP addressed communication gaps between Parliament and local authorities. She pointed out that she was the sole Member of Parliament from Ntungamo to attend the conference, citing late invitations. Rwakimaari advised the Clerk to Council to issue meeting notices and reports at least one week in advance, avoiding scheduling conflicts with parliamentary sitting days.

In addition, Rwakimaari shared updates regarding parliamentary efforts to waive the 30 percent tax imposed on local councillors and to secure increased remuneration. She explained that these initiatives aim to ease the financial hardships councillors face, enabling them to execute their community responsibilities more effectively. Read the full story on Nile Post.