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Jotham Mwesigwa handover
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By Joshua Nahamya
Rwampara
Rwampara District Speaker King Jotham Mwesigwa has officially handed over office after being appointed as a Programmes Officer at the Parliament of Uganda, marking the end of his four-year tenure as district speaker.
Mwesigwa, who rose from humble beginnings as an orphan to a respected district leader, said he was grateful for the trust and support he had received from the people of Rwampara throughout his political journey.
“I received a notification confirming that I had passed my interviews to become a Programmes Officer at the Parliament of Uganda,” Mwesigwa said joyfully.
“Today, I officially hand over office and bid farewell to my colleagues and the people of Rwampara as I begin a new chapter in public service.”
A Journey of Growth and Commitment
Mwesigwa’s political journey began in youth leadership before he was elected LC5 Councillor representing Mwizi Sub-county, where he earned the confidence of his peers to serve as District Speaker, a position he has held for the past four years. He described his time in office as a period of learning, service, and leadership growth.
“Commitment and hard work have defined my journey. When given a task, I ensure it is completed. I have also learned that building friendships and staying humble are essential in leadership,” Mwesigwa said.
Mwesigwa noted that while he had earlier contested against LC5 Chairperson Richard Owomugasho in the NRM primaries, their political rivalry was healthy competition that strengthened both leaders.
“Politics should never be about hatred,” he emphasized. “I competed with my chairman to grow and learn, not out of bad faith. Today, we shake hands and move forward as friends.”
Reconciliation and New Beginnings
During his final council meeting on Thursday, Mwesigwa and Chairman Owomugasho publicly reconciled and hugged each other, pledging to continue working together for the development of Rwampara District.
Mwesigwa urged the chairman to lead with fairness and inclusivity.
“I ask the chairman to serve without malice or segregation. Focus on issues that matter—youth employment, roads, clean water, and fighting corruption,” he advised.
He also encouraged young people to seize opportunities in both politics and public service.
“To the youth, don’t fear to start small. Get involved in leadership and apply for available positions. Opportunities come to those who step forward,” Mwesigwa said.
LC V Chairman Richard Owomugasho warning his speaker
Messages of Farewell and Encouragement
Several leaders praised Mwesigwa for his exemplary service.
Ustus Aryampereza, Councillor for Bugamba Sub-county, reminded him never to forget his roots.
“Rwampara is your home. Wherever you go, remember where you came from,” he said.
LC5 Chairperson Richard Owomugasho congratulated Mwesigwa on his new role, urging him to pursue further studies and humility.
“You are still young—go and study. Be humble and remember your people. Also, marry and build a stable future,” Owomugasho advised.
Willy Bataringaya, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Rwampara, commended Mwesigwa for his teamwork and contribution to service delivery. “King has been a dedicated leader who worked closely with the technical team to improve service delivery. We wish him success in his new role,” Bataringaya said.
Political Leaders Praise His Leadership
Hon. Amos Kankunda, MP for Rwampara County, said Mwesigwa’s appointment showed that leadership opportunities extend beyond politics.
“Politics is not the only way to serve. Jotham’s new role proves there are many paths to contribute to community and national development,” Kankunda said.
He also advised Mwesigwa to take his time learning at Parliament and to seek guidance from senior staff.
Swizin Kinga Mujema, Commissioner for Local Councils Development, representing the Minister for Local Government, hailed Mwesigwa’s persistence.
“He is a determined young leader who never gives up. His growth reflects the success of Uganda’s decentralization policy in nurturing new leaders,” Mujema noted.
He also urged other local leaders to take their roles seriously and continue reading and learning.
“Leadership is about knowledge and trust. Don’t let those you lead be more informed than you. Read, study, and provide solutions,” Mujema emphasized.
Parliamentary Speaker Sends Message
In a message delivered by Kato Gabriel Maguru, former CEC member, Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among congratulated Mwesigwa for his dedication and discipline.
She also gifted him UGX 1 million to help him purchase formal wear befitting the parliamentary dress code. “We are proud of leaders like Jotham who rise from the grassroots to national service. May he remain focused and disciplined,” Among’s message read.
Farewell with Love and Support
At the colorful handover ceremony attended by MPs, religious leaders, district speakers, family, and friends, councillors raised UGX 500,000 to support Mwesigwa’s transition to Kampala.
Mwesigwa, who also served as a member of the East African Speakers’ Committee in Arusha, Tanzania, said he would continue lobbying for opportunities for Rwampara District.
“Rwampara made me who I am. Wherever I go, I will work to bring opportunities to my people,” he pledged.
The position of Rwampara District Speaker will, for now, be occupied by the Deputy Speaker, pending the upcoming general elections.
Torch Media Africa
