A political storm is brewing in Serere District, Uganda, as Joseph Linos Opio, the district’s Secretary for Finance, threatens to petition Speaker of Parliament Anita Among. Opio accuses Members of Parliament (MPs) of neglecting critical development projects, including the establishment of a district hospital, completion of ferry docks, and finalization of a surgical ward at Serere Health Centre IV.
At the heart of Opio’s dissatisfaction is Serere County MP Emmanuel Omoding, who he claims has failed to deliver on his promises. Despite being a member of the Budget Committee, Omoding has not pushed for the completion of the surgical ward, which requires only $3 million to be fully completed. Opio argues that Omoding’s absence from the country during a critical budget meeting has hindered progress on the project.
The lack of a district hospital in Serere has put immense pressure on Serere Health Centre IV, which is overwhelmed by patients from neighboring districts. Opio emphasizes that the area MPs have failed to lobby for this crucial health facility, leaving residents to struggle with inadequate medical care.
Another contentious issue is the stalled completion of ferry docks at Kagwara, Buyende, and Kaberamaido. The ferries, which were procured to ease movement across Lake Kyoga, remain uncommissioned due to the government’s failure to pay the construction company. This has left traders, farmers, and passengers relying on expensive and sometimes unsafe private boats.
While Opio criticizes Omoding’s performance, he acknowledges the efforts of other MPs, such as Pingire County MP Fred Opolot and Kasilo County MP Elijah Okupa. Opio emphasizes the need for a unified approach among Serere’s MPs to achieve substantial progress and urges them to work closely with State Minister for Fisheries, Hellen Adoa, to ensure the district receives its fair share of government funding.
Source: Teso news network
