By Bonny Ferdinand Okello Alele, Assistant Resident City Commissioner, Lira City.
As Uganda prepares for the Local Council I (LC I) elections on 28th July, I wish to make a passionate appeal to our elites, business men and women, professionals, and the youth to recognize this day as one of the most critical moments for the peace, security, and stability of our communities.
Far too often, many educated citizens, successful entrepreneurs, and young people excuse themselves from participating in village and cell leadership affairs. They consider themselves too busy or believe that the election of an LC I leader is of little significance. This mindset is dangerous and costly. The truth is that every major issue affecting our nation begins at the grassroots, in the village or the cell. If we neglect leadership at this level, we should not be surprised when the consequences eventually affect our homes, businesses, and families.
The LC I is not merely a village chairperson. It is the foundation of governance and the first point of leadership in every community. The LC I plays a critical role in maintaining peace and security, resolving disputes, mobilizing communities for development, identifying vulnerable households, supporting government programs, and ensuring law and order. A community with capable and accountable grassroots leadership lays the foundation for a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Unfortunately, one of the greatest challenges facing our society today is the silence and absence of those who are best placed to influence positive change. Many elites, wealthy individuals, and young people stay away from village meetings and elections, leaving critical decisions to a few people. By choosing not to participate, they unintentionally surrender the future of their communities to others, including individuals who may lack the integrity, competence, or commitment required to lead.
Poor leadership at the village level has real consequences. It can breed insecurity, encourage extortion, fuel conflicts, promote abuse of office, and weaken public trust. When wrong leaders occupy these positions, the entire community bears the cost. Businesses suffer, investments become insecure, families lose confidence in local leadership, and development slows.
This is why I call upon every elite, every business man and woman, every professional, and every young person to come out on 28th July and be counted. Do not be ashamed to stand in line and participate in choosing the leadership of your cell or village. Democracy begins with participation, and leadership begins with the choices we make at the grassroots.
Your vote is not just a constitutional right—it is a responsibility to your community. By participating, you help shape the future of your neighbourhood and contribute to a stronger Uganda. Let us reject the culture of indifference and embrace the responsibility of active citizenship.
Our communities deserve leaders of integrity, wisdom, and commitment. Such leaders can only emerge when responsible citizens actively participate in the electoral process. The future of our villages, our cities, and indeed our country depends on the quality of leadership we choose from the very beginning.
On 28th July, let us all rise to the occasion. Let us be counted. Let us influence the right choices. Above all, let us lead by example because good leadership starts with each one of us.
The peace, security, and prosperity of Uganda begin in our villages and cells. Let us protect that foundation by participating fully in this important democratic exercise.