Heavy security deployment characterized the swearing-in and election of leaders in Kayunga District, where access to the council hall at the district headquarters was restricted to only councilors and a few accredited officials.
The council sitting was conducted under heightened tension, particularly surrounding the election of the District Speaker, as security personnel maintained strict control throughout the proceedings.
During the session, Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Jimmy Nsimbi Mugwanya cautioned newly sworn-in leaders against engaging in drug abuse, gambling, corruption, and indiscipline, urging them to prioritize service delivery and responsible leadership.
The speakership race attracted three candidates: Sulaiman Sserumu Kibuuka, Michael Nanda Wasyaki, and Joel Kayiira, in a closely contested election that kept both leaders and supporters in suspense.
In the first round of voting, Kibuuka led with 16 votes, followed closely by Wasyaki with 15 votes, while Kayiira secured 2 votes. With no candidate achieving the required absolute majority of 17 votes, the election proceeded to a rerun.
Tension briefly escalated after the announcement of the initial results as supporters from rival camps reportedly attempted to persuade Kayiira and his sole supporter around the district premises ahead of the decisive vote.
In the rerun, Sserumu Sulaiman Kibuuka narrowly emerged victorious, defeating Michael Wasyaki by 17 votes to 16, to become the new District Speaker.
Earlier, District Chairperson Andrew Muwonge, who is serving his second term, called for unity, reconciliation, and teamwork among leaders, stressing accountability and transparency in service delivery.
“Elections are now over, and what matters most is serving the people through unity and cooperation,” Muwonge said.
He further urged councilors to focus on development priorities and ensure transparency in public service.
“Our people expect improved services, accountability, and teamwork from all leaders regardless of political differences,” he added.
The RDC also reiterated his warning against misconduct among leaders, saying such behavior undermines public trust and effective service delivery.
“Leaders must avoid drug abuse, betting, and indiscipline because such habits affect proper decision-making and service delivery,” Mugwanya cautioned.