By Alfred Opio
The newly elected members of the Pallisa district service commision have officially been sworn into office in a ceremony held at the district chambers , marking a significant step toward strengthening public service delivery.
The ceremony saw Stephen Leges Mwanika take oath as the new Chairperson of the District Service Commission, while Dorothy Otim was sworn for her second term as the representative of urban councils.
However, the event was partially overshadowed by the absence of Vincent Acharoi , the representative of persons with disabilities, who was unable to take oath after being involved in a road accident while traveling to attend the function. Leaders present offered prayers for his quick recovery.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Pallisa District Chief Administrative Officer, Felix Alex Majeme , confirmed that the appointment of the commission members followed due process and approval by the Public Service Commission in Kampala.
❝ “As you are very much aware, on the 5th of this month, our three members appeared before the Public Service Commission in Kampala, and this early morning I received official communication confirming that they were successfully approved.” ❞
— Felix Alex Majeme
He emphasized that taking oath is a legal requirement and not merely ceremonial, reminding members of their responsibility to uphold the law.
❝ “As a requirement of the law, our members are supposed to take what we call the official oath and the oath of secrecy.” ❞
— Felix Alex Majeme
Majeme congratulated the newly sworn-in chairperson for fulfilling all legal requirements, including resigning from his previous role as Speaker of Pallisa District Local Government Council, and urged strict adherence to the Constitution.
❝ “The official oath binds you to uphold the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and other laws governing your office. My expectation is that you will not deviate from these principles.” ❞
— Felix Alex Majeme
He further stressed the importance of confidentiality in the commission’s work.
❝ “Your office handles very delicate matters. I do not expect any information to be released unless officially communicated. Exercise utmost confidentiality in all your dealings.” ❞
— Felix Alex Majeme
Turning to Dorothy Otim, Majeme described her reappointment as a strong vote of confidence from the people of Pallisa, particularly urban councils.
❝ “For you to return for a second term, just a week after your first term ended on March 15th, is a clear sign that the people trust your service.” ❞
— Felix Alex Majeme
In his remarks, the Pallisa District LC5 Chairperson, Patrick Duchu , acknowledged that the process of constituting the commission had been lengthy and at times contentious.
❝ “It was a long and protracted process with different interests coming in along the way, but we remained focused on ensuring that the vacant positions were filled.” ❞
— Patrick Duchu
He reassured the public that all decisions were made in the best interest of the district.
❝ “I want to assure the people of Pallisa that whatever we have done was not for selfish interests but for the good of the district. There should be no skepticism.” ❞
— Patrick Duchu
Duchu also highlighted the challenges ahead, particularly in recruitment processes where job opportunities are limited compared to the number of applicants.
❝ “As you take on this responsibility, remember that many people may be displeased by your decisions because jobs are fewer than applicants. But I believe in your experience and ability to deliver.” ❞
— Patrick Duchu
He called for cooperation among stakeholders, especially as his term approaches its end in May.
In his acceptance speech, the newly sworn-in Chairperson, Stephen Leges Mwanika, pledged to promote consultation, transparency, and teamwork.
❝ “With the experience we have, we shall consult widely because consultation is very important, especially with fellow commissioners and the secretariat.” ❞
— Stephen Leges Mwanika
He acknowledged public concerns surrounding the commission and promised openness and accountability.
❝ “We are coming in at a time when there has been a lot of talk. Our prayer is that we remain transparent so that the public can understand our work and build trust in the commission.” ❞
— Stephen Leges Mwanika
Mwanika also expressed gratitude to district leadership for ensuring the commission is fully constituted, noting that this will improve efficiency in service delivery.
On her part, Dorothy Otim expressed confidence in the commission’s ability to perform effectively, citing her prior experience.
❝ “The work will be manageable because I have served before. I call upon the public to remain calm and give us time to deliver the best.” ❞
— Dorothy Otim
The ceremony concluded with renewed optimism among district leaders and stakeholders, who expressed hope that the newly sworn-in commission will uphold integrity, fairness, and professionalism in executing its mandate for the benefit of the people of Pallisa.
