The longest-serving Local Council I (LC1) chairperson in Ibanda Municipality, Swale Kyeyune, has been declared unopposed for a fifth consecutive term, extending a leadership journey that has lasted four decades.
Kyeyune, 75, who has served as LC1 chairperson of Katoma I Cell in Kagongo Division since the mid-1980s, was declared the winner after no challenger emerged during the nomination process.
His return without contest reflects what residents describe as years of consistent leadership, community engagement and commitment to resolving local disputes and promoting development.
Speaking after being declared unopposed, Kyeyune thanked residents for renewing their confidence in his leadership.
“I am deeply humbled by the confidence the people of Katoma I Cell have continued to place in me. Being declared unopposed is a clear sign that the residents appreciate the leadership we have offered over the years. I thank everyone for their trust, and I pledge to continue serving them with honesty, fairness and integrity,” Kyeyune said.
The veteran leader attributed his continued support to transparent leadership and his willingness to work closely with residents in addressing community concerns.
As he begins another term, Kyeyune said improving access to essential services would remain his priority, with rural electrification at the centre of his development agenda.
“Leadership is about improving people's lives. During this term, I will continue working with fellow leaders and relevant government agencies to ensure communities that are still without electricity are connected. We shall also continue promoting peace, unity and development in our village,” he said.
Residents welcomed his unopposed return, saying his experience and accessibility had made him a dependable leader over the years.
Sarah Nyakato, a resident of Katoma I Cell, said Kyeyune had remained close to the community and consistently responded to residents’ concerns.
“Chairman Kyeyune has served this village with dedication for many years. He listens to people, resolves disputes fairly and always puts the interests of the community first. That is why many of us had no reason to look for another leader,” she said.
Another resident, John Tumwesigye, said continuity in leadership would help sustain ongoing development initiatives.
“His experience is an asset to this village. We believe he will continue lobbying for better services, especially electricity and other infrastructure that our community still needs,” Tumwesigye said.
Kyeyune’s unopposed election comes as villages across Uganda prepare for LC1 elections, with several candidates in different districts also securing office without challengers.
For residents of Katoma I Cell, however, Kyeyune’s latest victory represents more than an uncontested election—it is a renewed vote of confidence in a leader whose 40 years of service have earned him lasting trust within the community.
