In a decisive session marked by strategic patience and legislative maneuvering, the Agago District Council has officially approved a resolution to establish two new municipalities—Patongo and Kalongo—alongside a raft of new sub-counties and town councils. The move, however, comes with a significant caveat: the central government’s ban on the creation of new administrative units remains in effect, leaving the council in a state of readiness rather than immediate implementation.
The motion, moved by Yamokolo Zanziba, received approval from the District Executive Committee (DEC) and was subsequently presented to the full council. The proposal outlines a significant restructuring of the district’s administrative framework. According to the details submitted, Patongo Municipality and Kalongo Municipality are slated for creation, with their component parts to be detailed in a presentation by the District Vice Chairperson.
Beyond the municipalities, the council also approved a list of new sub-counties intended to streamline local governance. These include Kurok Sub-county from Lukole, Paimol North from Paimol, Ogole from Wol, Atut from Kuywee, Odokomit from Kotomor, Ademi from Agengo, Alela from Arum, Lapyem from Adilang, and Lomoi out of Omiya Pacwa. Additionally, four new town councils were approved: Omot Town Council (from Arum and Omot), Amyel Town Council (from Lapono), Arum Town Council (from Arum), and Lira Kato Town Council (from Lira Kato).
Despite the enthusiastic approval of these administrative changes, Speaker Samuel Kitang issued a sobering reminder to the house regarding the national legal landscape. He reiterated that the government has not yet lifted the moratorium on the creation of new administrative units, a ban that has stalled similar initiatives across the country. “The council is only preparing to be on the standby in case it is lifted,” Kitang stated, urging councillors to return to their respective constituencies and manage public expectations appropriately. He advised them to “have ears open” and remain prepared for action should the national policy shift.
This moratorium, initially placed by Parliament two years ago, was a topic of discussion during the session. Dr. Odonga Otto had previously noted that the freeze on new units was intended to curb expenditure. Recent attempts by the government to create new units in Tororo were noted to have been suspended, underscoring the sensitivity of the issue.
However, Agago District Chairperson Ojok Leonard offered a note of cautious optimism. While addressing the council, he acknowledged the constraints of public discourse, hinting at behind-the-scenes progress. “Not everything can be said in public in the presence of media,” Ojok remarked, suggesting that private consultations were ongoing. “You can meet me privately.”
Ojok revealed that through lobbying efforts involving Minister Akello Beatrice Akori and visits to key government offices, Agago District’s priority status had been elevated from fourth to second position among districts awaiting administrative approval. This progress, he argued, provided a strong foundation for hope that the district’s proposals would be among the first considered when the moratorium is eventually lifted.
The debate also saw arguments centered on the viability of the proposed municipalities. One councillor submitted that Patongo should be prioritized due to its status as a host of a High Court, arguing that a High Court ought to be situated within a municipality to reflect its judicial and administrative significance.
As the council adjourned, the message was clear: while the administrative blueprint for Agago’s future is ready, its realization remains contingent on the central government’s timeline. For now, the district stands prepared, waiting for the green light from Kampala to transform its administrative landscape.
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