The tenure of outgoing Kitagwenda District LCV Chairperson Ismail Mushemeza has officially come to an end, drawing mixed reactions from residents and local leaders over his performance in office.
Mushemeza handed over office on May 11, 2026, to Kitagwenda Chief Administrative Officer Moses RK Daliri, who will temporarily oversee the district administration until the incoming LCV Chairperson, Ephrance Kenyonyozi, assumes office on May 25, 2026.
While some residents and stakeholders praised his leadership, others accused his administration of being tainted by corruption allegations, particularly within the district service commission.
One source, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that corruption undermined public confidence in the district leadership during Mushemeza’s tenure.
“This has been one of the most corrupt administrations since Kitagwenda became a district. Instead of fighting corruption, the leadership seemed to tolerate and promote it, especially in the district service commission,” the source alleged.
Another resident echoed similar concerns, saying repeated corruption allegations without visible action weakened trust in public institutions.
“Many people lost trust in the system because cases of alleged corruption were repeatedly raised, yet little action was seen,” the source said.
However, other residents defended Mushemeza, crediting his administration for notable improvements in infrastructure and service delivery, particularly in road maintenance and health services.
“Before Mushemeza’s leadership, many roads in the district were in a terrible state, but several roads have since been worked on while others were opened up, improving transport and accessibility,” one resident said.
Others also noted improvements in health service delivery across various parts of the district under his leadership.
During the handover ceremony, Mushemeza defended his record, highlighting what he described as significant progress achieved during his tenure.
“When I assumed office, Kitagwenda District was ranked 173rd nationwide, and I am leaving when the district now stands at 58th position nationally,” he said.
He also pointed to budget growth as another indicator of progress.
“When I came into office, the district budget stood at about UGX 21 billion, but I am leaving when it has increased to UGX 32 billion,” he added.
Kitagwenda Chief Administrative Officer Moses RK Daliri commended the peaceful transition and acknowledged Mushemeza’s contribution to district development.
“I thank Chairman Mushemeza for the peaceful handover and for the contribution he has made towards the development of Kitagwenda District during his tenure,” Daliri said.
The incoming chairperson, Ephrance Kenyonyozi, is expected to officially take over leadership of the district on May 25, 2026.