Masindi local leaders blame MPs for funding gaps in New lower governments
As a result, only the previously existing five sub-counties continue to receive funds, leaving the newly created units struggling to operate.
Masindi: Local leaders in Masindi District have blamed Members of Parliament (MPs) for failing to ensure that newly created administrative units receive government funding.
They argue that MPs have not played their role in securing coding for these units, a crucial step for them to receive budget allocations from the central government.
In an exclusive interview on Tuesday, Masindi District LCV Chairman Cosmas Byaruhanga explained that the push to create new lower local government units such as sub-counties and parishes was aimed at job creation and improving service delivery.
He emphasized that the expansion was meant to facilitate the establishment of more primary schools, health centers, and secondary schools to benefit residents at the grassroots level.
However, Byaruhanga revealed that despite the creation of five additional sub-counties and town councils, they have not been coded, meaning they receive no direct funding from the central government.
As a result, only the previously existing five sub-counties continue to receive funds, leaving the newly created units struggling to operate.
Sunday Eyotu, the LC III Chairman of Nyantonzi Sub-County, echoed these concerns. He stated that since the establishment of his sub-county, they have received road maintenance funds only once through Budongo Sub-County, their parent unit and another time through the district.
Eyotu pointed out that poor road conditions have hindered residents’ access to essential services and made it difficult for farmers to transport their produce to markets. He urged the central government to expedite the coding process for newly created local governments to ensure they receive proper funding.
In response, Bujenje County MP Kenneth Kiiza Nyendwoha acknowledged the challenge, stating that MPs have continuously pushed the executive to allocate funds for the new administrative units but with little success. He, however, expressed optimism that the issue would be addressed in the next financial year.
Nyendwoha also commended the sub-counties within his constituency for efficiently utilizing the limited funds they have received so far.
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