Stalled Relocation: Parents and Politicians Clash Over School's New Home
Millions sit idle in Tororo Municipality's coffers, earmarked for the relocation of Morikatipe View Primary School, displaced by the Standard Gauge Railway project. The source of the friction? A land dispute between parents and local politicians.
Over 1.16 billion shillings were allocated to find the school a new home. Half a billion went towards acquiring a suitable 4-acre plot, with the rest reserved for infrastructure development. However, the money released in December last year remains untouched due to a bitter disagreement about the new location.
Parents, represented by the school management committee chairperson, David Oroni, identified a plot they believe is ideal. But their hopes are dashed by political leaders who push for a different piece of land. Whispers of personal gain swirl around the politicians' choice.
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These accusations find some ground with the municipal education officer, Teddy Makola. She reveals the politicians pressured her to block the parents' preferred location in favor of theirs.
Fearing the funds dwindle due to bank charges, Tororo RDC Nixon Owole stepped in. He visited the land championed by the community and, satisfied with its suitability (outside wetlands, with access to electricity and nestled within the community), ordered the municipal authority to purchase it.
Owole's decision was a breath of fresh air for many. Peter Ekikina, president of the Municipal Development Forum, lauded it as a long-awaited wise move.
This is more than just a land dispute. It's about ensuring the 500-plus students of Morikatipe View have a new school to call home, complete with classrooms, teachers' quarters, and the support of their community.
