Sembabule — Patrick Nkalubo, Sembabule District Chairperson, who has secured another term in office unopposed, has raised concerns over the low salaries paid to district chairpersons despite the heavy responsibilities they shoulder.
In an exclusive interview, Nkalubo reflected on his political journey, his fresh mandate, and the challenges and priorities that lie ahead.
On returning to office without facing a challenger, Nkalubo said, “This is something I didn’t take for granted. In the past, I faced stiff competition, especially in the NRM primaries. At one point, I polled over 59,000 votes against Dr. Elly Muhumuza, my former rival. But this time, seeing myself go through general elections without any opponent left me surprised. It is a humbling moment in my life.”
Addressing concerns that being unopposed could breed complacency, Nkalubo assured residents that his work has just begun. “Being unopposed means I owe the people of Sembabule even more results. I am warning my colleagues against corruption and mismanagement. The next term is going to be about working at a faster pace, what I call ‘high-speed service delivery.’ Government money that comes here must go directly to projects, not into individual pockets.”
Looking back on his previous term, Nkalubo said his proudest achievement was resolving the tense conflict between Sembabule District and the Buganda Kingdom over land ownership, a challenge that threatened to destabilize the area.
However, Nkalubo expressed concern over inadequate resources for district leaders. “Our salaries are extremely small compared to the workload. Sometimes I have had to work without even a vehicle, and it affects service delivery. What hurts me most is seeing other officials who barely have responsibilities being paid much more. I appeal to government to review this so that leaders like us can serve without unnecessary struggles,” he said.
On ensuring transparency, Nkalubo emphasized stricter supervision. “I will not tolerate anyone who turns government money into personal benefit. I call upon my fellow leaders and technical staff to be disciplined. Service delivery is not about us; it’s about the people of Sembabule.”
To the people of Sembabule, he said, “I thank them for the trust. I promise to serve diligently. I also encourage young people and fellow politicians to avoid unnecessary divisions and self-interest. Politics should be about improving people’s lives, not personal fights.”
Profile: Who is Patrick Nkalubo?
Born in Kigere Village, Lwesankala Parish, Lwemiyaga Subcounty, Nkalubo joined politics in 2006 when he contested for Lwemiyaga MP against Theodore Ssekikubo.
After losing, he transitioned to district leadership and in 2021 unseated Dr. Elly Muhumuza to become Sembabule District Chairperson.
A graduate of Political Science, he previously worked as a Community Development Officer and served on the Sembabule and Mubende District Service Commissions.
