The Secretary General of the National Resistance Movement, Rt Hon. Richard Todwong, has urged newly elected party and local government leaders in northern Uganda to prioritise unity and peaceful coexistence as they begin their new terms in office.
Speaking during separate swearing-in ceremonies for leaders in Nwoya District, Pakwach District and Gulu on Tuesday, Todwong said unity among leaders and communities would be essential in addressing poverty, land disputes and development challenges in the region.
He cautioned leaders against divisions and political arrogance, reminding them that leadership is a responsibility entrusted to them by the people.
“The people have surrendered their future into your hands for the next five years. You must remain united, humble yourselves and continue listening to the communities you serve,” Todwong said.
He called on the leaders to work closely with local councils, cultural leaders and residents to strengthen harmony and improve service delivery.
Todwong stressed that internal unity within the ruling party would help leaders focus on development instead of political conflicts.
He urged leaders to regularly engage communities and understand the needs of ordinary people, saying effective leadership starts at the grassroots.
The NRM secretary general also emphasised the need for collective efforts in fighting household poverty, saying government programmes alone would not transform communities unless leaders mobilised citizens to actively participate in wealth creation initiatives.
“We must unite our people around fighting poverty. Development cannot come when communities are divided,” he said.
Todwong further appealed for calm in areas affected by land conflicts, especially in parts of Pakwach, saying disputes should be resolved peacefully through lawful institutions.
“We have to live peacefully with one another as communities while the courts and leaders work on lasting solutions,” he added.
He also acknowledged concerns related to wildlife conflicts and fishing enforcement operations, pledging continued engagement between the government, party leaders and local communities to find lasting solutions.
The ceremonies attracted local leaders, party supporters and residents from across the three areas, with many pledging to work together in promoting unity and development in northern Uganda.