Cantankerous Leadership Kicks Off As Magyezi Hands Over Local Gov’t Ministry To Balaam, Nameere

By Swift Reporter

Former Minister of Local Government Raphael Magyezi on Friday morning officially handed over the leadership of the Ministry of Local Government to newly appointed Minister Balaam Barugahara and State Minister Justine Nameere.

The handover ceremony, held at the ministry headquarters, marked the formal transition of political leadership following recent cabinet appointments by President Yoweri Museveni.

Held under the theme, “Welcoming the New Political Leadership for Effective Service Delivery in Local Governments,” the event brought together senior ministry officials, local government leaders and other stakeholders to witness the change in leadership.

During the ceremony, Magyezi officially transferred responsibility for the ministry’s affairs to the new ministers, highlighting the importance of continuity in implementing government programmes and strengthening service delivery across local governments.

Balaam and Nameere used the occasion to outline their vision for the ministry, pledging to work closely with technical staff, local leaders and development partners to improve service delivery and enhance accountability at all levels of local government.

The new ministers assume office at a time when the government is intensifying efforts to improve the implementation of key programmes, including the Parish Development Model (PDM), and address concerns about corruption and inefficiencies in local government structures.

Addressing attendees, Balaam emphasized the need for teamwork and commitment in delivering services to Ugandans, while Nameere pledged to support efforts aimed at ensuring government programmes directly benefit communities across the country.

The Ministry of Local Government plays a central role in overseeing local administrations, coordinating service delivery and supporting districts, cities, municipalities and lower local government units.

Friday’s handover officially marks the beginning of a new leadership team at the ministry as government seeks to strengthen accountability and accelerate development at the grassroots level.

The event concluded with engagements between the incoming ministers, ministry staff and local government representatives on priorities for the new administration.