Analysts Urge Responsible Spending as Tororo Village Elections Heat up

Grassroots democracy is alive and vibrant in Tororo District as village chairperson elections kick off, drawing large crowds and spirited contenders.

However, political analysts are raising red flags over the heavy spending that is characterising the campaigns, warning that it could erode the integrity of local governance.

At various nomination centers across the district, the scene resembles a high-stakes parliamentary race rather than a village-level election. Candidates and their supporters are flocking in numbers, each hopeful of winning their community’s trust and securing the flag.

Among the candidates is Sabiri Kaima, vying for Juba Cell Chairperson. Despite limited financial means, Kaima is pouring resources into his campaign, driven by a determination to bring change.

“The way our current chairperson leads is problematic,” Kaima said. “When you seek his help, he complicates things, and theft has become rampant in our village.”

Residents, too, are eager for a leadership overhaul. Many expressed frustration over years without elections and voiced hopes for leaders who truly represent their interests.

“It’s been too long since we last voted. Governance has suffered, and we need leaders who will deliver results,” said Odeke Abdsahabit, a resident.

Fatuma Nyagoma, another resident, added, “As widows, we were denied funds for PDM and Emyoga, yet we have children to support. We’re yearning for a leader who understands our struggles.”

Amid the excitement, concerns are mounting. Peter Omuse, a local political analyst, warns that the culture of heavy spending could have lasting negative effects.

“Consider your family — what happens if you fail?” Omuse asked. “I appeal to politicians: use your resources wisely for the betterment of us all.”

Omuse cautioned that candidates who invest heavily might prioritise recovering their campaign costs over serving the people once elected.

“If I win, I won’t serve the people; I’ll first seek to recover my costs,” he warned, echoing a common fear among observers.

As the broader general elections loom, analysts are calling on candidates to embrace responsible spending and to remember that genuine leadership is earned, not bought.

It’s been too long since we last voted. Governance has suffered, and we need leaders who will deliver results