LIRA, UGANDA – For the past five years, Lira City West Division has been a shadow of its potential. While other areas have grown, this division has been trapped in a cycle of internal conflict involving politicians, technical staff, and councilors—a stalemate that has crippled development and left residents frustrated.
At the peak of the dysfunction, relations broke down so completely that reports indicate the Speaker and the Mayor never held a single face-to-face meeting throughout their entire term. The toxic atmosphere has allegedly stalled service delivery, with key social services—roads, sanitation, and community programs—showing little improvement.
In an exclusive interview on Qfm and Oroma TV morning talkback show called “Yite Owili”,Emmanuel Ebong Opeto acknowledged the deep wounds within the division’s leadership. Drawing on his long political experience, he did not shy away from the damage caused by the prolonged misunderstandings.
“The fighting has cost our people too much,” Opeto said. “My priority is to bring all leaders together—regardless of their past—and rebuild trust. Without unity, there is no development.”
-Regular dialogue sessions with councilors to resolve grievances.
-Improved communication across all leadership structures.
·-Capacity-building workshops to strengthen teamwork and shared goals.
His message was unambiguous: promoting peace within the council is the only way to unlock better service delivery for the community.
With a Speakership race on the horizon, Opeto has chosen not to endorse any candidate. Several individuals have already expressed interest and have been seeking his backing.
“I cannot take sides at this moment,” he explained. “They are all my councilors. The council will decide democratically.”
Though a strong supporter of the UPC party, Opeto pledged to set partisan interests aside.
“Leadership is about delivering results, not deepening divisions,” he said. “I will serve all residents of Lira City West Division—no matter their political affiliation.”
For ordinary citizens who have watched projects stall and basic services decline, Opeto’s commitment offers a glimmer of hope. Many now look forward to a new chapter of cooperation—one where renewed unity among leaders translates into tangible development, better roads, improved sanitation, and functioning community programs.
For now, all eyes are on whether words can finally become action in Lira City West Division.
