The longest-serving Local Council One (LC1) chairperson in Ibanda Municipality, Swale Kyeyune, has been declared unopposed for a fifth consecutive term, extending a leadership journey that has spanned four decades.
Kyeyune, 75, has served as LC1 chairperson of Katoma I Cell in Kagongo Division since the mid-1980s. He was returned unopposed after no challenger emerged during the nomination process ahead of the village elections.
His unopposed return reflects what many residents describe as decades of consistent leadership, accessibility, and commitment to resolving community disputes while championing local development initiatives.
Speaking shortly after being declared unopposed, Kyeyune expressed gratitude to residents for once again entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the village.
“I am deeply humbled by the confidence the people of Katoma I Cell have continued to place in me. Being declared unopposed is a clear sign that the residents appreciate the leadership we have offered over the years. I thank everyone for their trust, and I pledge to continue serving them with honesty, fairness, and integrity,” Kyeyune said.
The veteran leader attributed his continued public support to transparent leadership, accountability, and his commitment to working closely with residents to address challenges affecting the community.
Looking ahead to his new term, Kyeyune said improving access to essential services would remain a key priority, with rural electrification topping his development agenda.
“Leadership is about improving people’s lives. During this term, I will continue working with fellow leaders and relevant government agencies to ensure communities that are still without electricity are connected. We shall also continue promoting peace, unity, and development in our village,” he added.
Residents welcomed his unopposed return, describing him as a dependable and approachable leader whose experience has helped maintain stability within the community.
Sarah Nyakato, a resident of Katoma I Cell, said Kyeyune has consistently remained close to the people and has always been available whenever residents required his intervention.
“Chairman Kyeyune has served this village with dedication for many years. He listens to people, resolves disputes fairly, and always puts the interests of the community first. That is why many of us had no reason to look for another leader,” she said.
Another resident, John Tumwesigye, said continuity in leadership would help sustain ongoing community development programmes.
“His experience is an asset to this village. We believe he will continue lobbying for better services, especially electricity and other infrastructure that our community still needs,” Tumwesigye said.
Kyeyune’s unopposed election comes as villages across Uganda prepare for LC1 elections, with several candidates in different districts also securing office unopposed after facing no challengers.
For the people of Katoma I Cell, however, Kyeyune’s latest victory represents more than an uncontested election. It is a renewed vote of confidence in a leader whose 40 years of service have earned him enduring trust and respect within the community.
