By Alfred Opio
Tension unfolded at the headquarters of Pallisa District on Tuesday as dozens of parish councilors from various sub-counties staged a protest demanding immediate payment of long-outstanding allowances.
The visibly frustrated leaders stormed the district offices, accusing authorities of failing to clear arrears amounting to 16 quarters, leaving many of them struggling financially and questioning the management of public funds.
Speaking during the protest, Emmanuel Okello, a parish councilor from Okisiran Parish in Akisim Sub-county, said the demonstration followed repeated promises from district officials that never materialized.
“We are tired of being deceived all the time. Whenever we ask about our money, the only response we get is ‘please, we are working on it,’” Okello said.
He noted that many councilors depend on the allowances to facilitate community oversight activities and meet personal obligations, adding that the prolonged delays have severely affected their livelihoods. Some leaders openly expressed fears that the funds could have been mismanaged or embezzled due to the lack of clear communication from district authorities.
Veronica Akwi, who represents Kinomu Parish in Obolliso Sub-county, said the unpaid allowances were meant to support their families and community work.
“This money would help us solve the overwhelming problems we are currently facing. I cannot even afford scholastic materials for my children, and I have debts piling up,” she lamented.
Meanwhile, Johnson Arikod, a youth councilor from Kameke Sub-county, questioned why parish leaders in neighboring districts reportedly receive payments on time while those in Pallisa continue to wait.
“I interact with councilors from other districts and they are paid every quarter. Why is Pallisa different?” he asked.
Responding to the accusations, John Okia, the Principal Assistant Secretary, dismissed claims of embezzlement and assured the councilors that the funds are available.
According to Okia, the delay is due to technical limitations with the district’s “impress” account, which cannot process large sums at once.
“The money is there, but the account cannot handle huge amounts at once. We shall begin paying the arrears in phases until all balances are cleared,” he explained, urging patience as the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer works to resolve the issue.
Nakusi Aisha, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner, pledged to follow up the matter to ensure accountability and timely payment. She warned that her office would intervene if further delays persist.
The protest underscores growing frustration among grassroots leaders, who say unpaid allowances hinder their ability to effectively represent communities. Local observers note that clearing the arrears could help restore trust between parish leaders and district authorities while strengthening service delivery at the community level.
