By Vicent Emong
As newly elected leaders prepare to assume office, a firm and cautionary message has emerged: leadership is not a gateway to wealth, but a call to serve.
Richard Ochom, the outgoing Mayor of Kumi Municipality and Chairperson of the NRM in the area, delivered a candid address to incoming leaders, urging them to anchor their leadership in law, humility, and service.
“My simple advice to the upcoming leaders,” he said, “is that they must read and understand the Local Government Act. To them, it is like a Bible. They must fully grasp it in order to effectively serve the people.”
Ochom emphasized that leadership demands sacrifice and responsibility—not privilege.
“People give you a mandate to carry their vision and provide political direction. That is the purpose of leadership. You must defend your people, work for them, lobby for resources, and create a conducive environment that protects both them and their property.”
He warned against the arrogance that sometimes accompanies public office, cautioning leaders not to forget those who entrusted them with power.
“Some leaders think that once they get into office, they become bosses. But we must remain answerable to the people. That is how the Local Government Act was designed.”
In a passionate appeal, Ochom underscored the central role of citizens in governance.
“What is government? Government is the people. Do not wage war against them. No leader can fight their own people and succeed—they will eventually rise against you.”
He further cautioned that public office should not be viewed as a source of personal enrichment, urging leaders to establish alternative sources of livelihood.
“It’s not about your stomach; it’s about sacrifice for the people,” he said. “You must have a side business to support yourself.”
Drawing from his experience since taking office in 2016, Ochom highlighted the financial realities of local governance, warning incoming leaders against unrealistic expectations.
“Many leaders come with high expectations, but they will be disappointed. There is no money,” he said.
He noted that while municipalities such as Soroti, Mbale, Entebbe, Kampala, and Masaka benefit from stronger revenue bases, Kumi continues to struggle with limited local income.
“The highest amount we have collected is 260 million shillings, which must be shared among three local governments. That leaves very little for service delivery,” he explained.
Ochom concluded with a blunt reminder:
“My brother, my sister, lower your expectations before assuming office. There is no money here.”
Meanwhile, Hellen Akello, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Kumi District, called for unity and accountability among leaders.
She emphasized the importance of close cooperation between political leaders and technical staff to ensure effective service delivery.
