On the 1st of May 2023, the media unveiled a captivating narrative involving former influential Museveni-appointed Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) who gathered in Kampala, echoing their plight after being removed from prestigious presidential representative roles in March 2022. They expressed their current state of unemployment and the challenges they face in finding new paths.
This meeting followed a prior encounter with President Museveni on July 8, 2022, where he expressed gratitude for their past service and encouraged them to support the current RDCs for smoother service delivery. Museveni later tweeted about the meeting, reassuring the former RDCs of his appreciation and urging them to assist their successors.
Despite their expectations, the group left the meeting with smiles as the president reportedly assured them of financial support. Some were redeployed, while others received a monetary package of Shs360 million, and a select few were gifted land. However, this benevolence did not extend to all former RDCs, leaving many to continue seeking assistance from the president.
Facing economic challenges, the group reconvened in Kampala to renew their plea for aid from the president, whether through new appointments or financial support to cope with their unemployment.
Among the noteworthy individuals is Eric Sakwa, the former Jinja RDC, once a powerful figure who faced a downfall amid accusations of murder during the Covid-19 curfew. Although acquitted later, Sakwa’s contract was terminated by the Permanent Secretary in the Presidency, leading to unsuccessful attempts to overturn the decision in court.
Eric Sakwa, a qualified teacher with a Master’s Degree and a vocal politician in Mbale, struggles in Uganda and appeals to the president for a second chance to serve the country or to provide him and his former colleagues with a financial package for life after their RDC roles.
These pleas coincide with the National Resistance Movement’s (NRM) upcoming countrywide register update this week. For those unfamiliar, an RDC holds significant authority in a district, heading District Security Committees and issuing orders to District Police Commanders. During elections, their directives are implemented without hesitation, showcasing their influential role in local governance.
