The Secretary to the Office of the President, Hajji Yunus Kakande, has urged Resident District Commissioners in Bukedi and Sebei to intensify civic education and safeguard peace ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Kakande made the call while opening a three-day capacity-building workshop for RDCs, Deputy RDCs, Assistant RDCs, District Internal Security Officers and Regional Internal Security Officers at Wash & Wills Hotel in Mbale City.
He said RDCs must guide communities on responsible voting, peaceful participation and integrity throughout the election season. “Through your various forums, continue empowering citizens with knowledge on how to vote responsibly, exercise integrity and turn up in big numbers on polling day,” Kakande said.
Kakande reminded the officials that maintaining peace and stability remains their top responsibility as the election period draws closer. “The President expects RDC structures and security committees to ensure peaceful campaigns, prevent violence, protect public property, stop intimidation and counter misinformation,” he said.
He described RDCs and security officers as direct representatives of the Presidency at the grassroots, mandated to monitor government programs and prevent misuse of public resources.
Kakande also urged them to maximize government-sponsored radio airtime to sensitize the public on peace, government programs and development achievements.
He noted that Bukedi and Sebei have made significant development gains under the NRM, including better road infrastructure, expanded electricity access and increased economic activity. He warned that these achievements must be protected from vandalism, mismanagement and misinformation.
Kakande further called for stronger sensitization on wealth creation initiatives such as the Parish Development Model and Emyooga, noting that district leadership plays a central role in their success.
He raised concern over environmental degradation in Sebei, citing soil erosion, landslides, deforestation and wetland encroachment. He urged closer collaboration with district authorities, NEMA and forestry officers to enforce environmental laws.
The Head of the RDC Secretariat, Maj. Martha Asiimwe, praised Kakande for supporting continuous training, saying the workshop is designed to strengthen leadership, teamwork, security management and district performance.
