The Secretary to the Office of the President, Hajji Yunus Kakande, has called on Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and security officials in Bukedi and Sebei sub-regions to scale up civic education and ensure maximum peace as the country prepares for the 2026 General Elections.
Kakande delivered the message while officially opening a three-day capacity-building workshop for RDCs, Deputy RDCs, Assistant RDCs, District Internal Security Officers (DISOs) and Regional Internal Security Officers (RISOs) at Wash & Wills Hotel in Mbale City.
Kakande emphasised that RDCs, as the President’s representatives at the grassroots, must take the lead in guiding communities on responsible voting, peaceful participation and integrity throughout the electoral period.
“Through your various forums, continue empowering citizens with knowledge on how to vote responsibly, exercise integrity and turn up in big numbers on polling day,” he said.
Kakande reminded the officials that peace and stability remain their core mandate as the nation enters a sensitive political season.
He stressed that President Museveni expects RDC structures and security committees to ensure peaceful campaigns, prevent violence, protect public property, curb intimidation and counter misinformation.
He further highlighted that RDCs and security officers play a critical role in monitoring government programmes and preventing misuse of public resources.
Kakande encouraged RDCs and DISOs to maximise government-sponsored radio airtime to sensitise the public on peace, government programmes and the development achievements registered under the NRM government.
He noted that Bukedi and Sebei sub-regions have enjoyed improved infrastructure, expanded electricity access and increased economic activity, crediting the gains to continued government investment. However, he warned that these achievements must be protected from vandalism, mismanagement and misinformation.
Kakande also urged district leaders to enhance public sensitisation on key wealth creation programmes including the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, saying their success depends heavily on local-level leadership and coordination.
Kakande expressed concern over escalating environmental degradation in the Sebei region, pointing to soil erosion, landslides, deforestation and wetland encroachment.
He called for stronger collaboration with district authorities, NEMA officials and forestry officers to enforce environmental protection laws and safeguard communities.
The Head of the RDC Secretariat, Maj. Martha Asiimwe, applauded Kakande for championing capacity-building efforts across the country. She said the ongoing workshop is tailored to enhance leadership skills, teamwork, security management and overall district performance.