By Ochan Daniel
Lira District, Uganda — Otuke Resident District Commissioner (RDC) George Abudul has issued a stern warning against individuals planning to disrupt security during the festive season.
Speaking at two separate burials on Friday, December 20, 2024, Abudul detailed efforts by the region’s security team to maintain peace and urged citizens to prioritize vigilance in their communities.
During his address at the burial of Imat Bito Washington Otike in Bungamon Village, Alworo Parish, Amach Sub-County, and later at Imat Sophia Awany’s burial in Adeknino Village, Okile Parish, Agali Sub-County, Abudul emphasized the role of individual responsibility in enhancing security.
“Security begins with each one of us,” he said, calling on residents to report suspicious individuals to local authorities, from LCIs to the police and RDCs.
Abudul also discussed health and safety measures critical to community well-being. He advised farmers to use protective gears, such as heavy-duty gloves, gumboots, and face shields, when handling agricultural chemicals.
“Many unexplained deaths result from exposure to harmful substances during farming,” he cautioned.
Turning his attention to the pharmaceutical sector, Abudul warned drug shop operators against selling medication without proper prescriptions, singling out the misuse of painkillers.
“Continuous abuse of painkillers can damage vital organs. Follow prescriptions issued by physicians to ensure safety,” he stressed.
The RDC also criticized unethical practices in government health facilities, including extortion and discrimination.
He recounted an incident during his tenure as RDC in Apac District, where medics demanded over UGX 500,000 from patients for surgical procedures that cost less than UGX 90,000.
“Such practices are not only illegal but invite God’s curse,” he warned.
He urged medics to honour their oath of service and treat all patients equally, regardless of appearance or financial status.
In a significant announcement, Abudul declared his intention to contest for the Erute South parliamentary seat in the 2026 elections.
“I am committed to bringing transformative leadership to our people,” he stated.
The burials, which brought together hundreds of mourners, honoured two respected members of the community.
Imat Bito Washington Otike, born on March 17, 1951, and deceased on December 16, 2024, was a member of the Atek Awili clan and mother to one child.
Imat Sophia Awany, born on April 2, 1956, and deceased on December 15, 2024, belonged to the Ngurapuc clan and survived by 10 children plus 87 grandchildren.
Abudul, accompanied by Agali Sub-County Speaker Sedrick, made financial contributions to both bereaved families as a gesture of solidarity.
The RDC’s remarks resonated with many, as his focus on security, health, and ethical governance underscored his readiness to address pressing community challenges.
His declaration for Erute South MP sets the stage for a closely watched political contest in 2026.
