By
Kefa Buyindira
The Namisindwa District Council has unanimously resolved to suspend a recent recruitment advert for new Heads of Departments, citing irregularities in the process. The council also approved the continuation of interviews for candidates who were previously shortlisted.
The original recruitment advert was published on December 16, 2024. Shortlisting followed, with interviews scheduled for April 7, 2025. However, the interviews were abruptly suspended without explanation. While candidates awaited a new date, a fresh advert—targeting the same positions—appeared in the New Vision newspaper, sparking concern among stakeholders.
In response, councilors petitioned the Speaker to convene a special sitting, which was held on Friday, April 25, 2025.
District Speaker Dorothy Walukawu said the council resolved to suspend the new advert due to the lack of transparency surrounding the cancellation of the initial recruitment. She added that the council also agreed to seek clearance to proceed with interviews for already shortlisted candidates and to hold responsible individuals accountable for the mishandling of the process.
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Councilor Weswa Perez Bigaala, who moved the motion, blamed the District Executive Committee, led by the District Chairperson, for negligence. He also faulted the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for failing to properly advise the council and monitor the activities of statutory bodies.
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District Vice Chairperson Bwayo James Kitumbesi said the executive committee is awaiting a report from the District Service Commission before taking action, noting that the commission operates independently. He said the concerns raised during the meeting were new to the executive and declined to comment on the reason behind the publication of the new advert.
Male Youth Councilor Bwayo Emma expressed disappointment with the executive’s inaction, arguing that it is their duty to implement council resolutions. He described it as embarrassing for government leaders to claim ignorance on matters they are expected to clarify. He also urged authorities to prioritize career progression, noting that many staff members have remained in the same positions despite being eligible for promotion—a situation he said is affecting morale.