Katakwi Leaders Oppose Proposed Usuk District Amid Calls for Division
Local leaders in Katakwi District have voiced opposition to the proposed creation of Usuk District, accusing certain individuals of pushing a divisive agenda. According to the leaders, the district’s division is being driven by propagandists aiming to separate the counties of Toroma and Usuk for personal or political gain.
Historical Context and Council Resolutions
In December 2017, the Katakwi District Council passed a resolution requesting the formation of Toroma District from Katakwi District to enhance service delivery, in line with constitutional mandates. However, no such request was made for the creation of Usuk District, according to Raphael Mark Ojakal, the District Councilor for Usuk. He emphasized that discussions about Usuk’s creation are baseless and not grounded in official resolutions.
“The push for Usuk District is nothing but a political distraction intended to divide the people,” Ojakal stated. He further clarified that Katakwi District’s leadership has consistently supported the establishment of Toroma District and is unaware of any legitimate moves to create Usuk District.
Administrative Progress
The 2017 resolution also proposed the establishment of 11 sub-counties, including Amusia, Akoboi, Getom, Okulonyo, Angodingod, Okore, and Guyaguya, while Olupe, Kamenu, Ominya, and Odoot remained pending. Several town councils, such as Usuk, Magoro, and Toroma, were successfully created, with Ngariam being the only operational county among those proposed. Despite the establishment of additional town boards and villages, many remain non-operational.
Chief Administrative Officer Paul Walakira confirmed that the district’s council had prioritized Toroma District. “We are still awaiting the final resolutions for Toroma District. There has been no formal process or resolution regarding Usuk,” Walakira explained.
Allegations of Political Motivation
Moses Amodoi, a prominent activist in Usuk Town Council, echoed concerns about the motives behind the Usuk District proposal. He accused certain elders of using the issue for personal gain, stating, “While Toroma County deserves a district due to its clear and formal request, the same cannot be said for Usuk.”
Under Article 179 of the Local Government Act, any changes to district boundaries or creation of new administrative units require approval by the council and submission to the Ministry of Local Government.
Recent Advocacy for Usuk District
Despite the lack of formal council resolutions, a recent mobilization effort led by Hon. Ojaman Simon Peter has reignited debate. On October 31, 2024, Ojaman, an adviser to Iteso Cultural Leader His Highness Paul Sande Emolot-Etomaileng, was presented as the head of the campaign for Usuk District. During a conference held in Okuda Village, Ongongoja Sub-county, approximately 80 elders reportedly endorsed the proposal, vowing to promote it through public meetings and radio.
Population Dynamics
Katakwi District currently has a population of 176,800, with a density of 72.8 people per square kilometer. According to the 2021 election data, Usuk has around 17,000 voters, while Toroma County’s population stands at approximately 51,212.
Conclusion
The push for Usuk District remains contentious, with leaders emphasizing that the focus should remain on the creation of Toroma District, as initially resolved. While proponents of Usuk District continue to advocate for its establishment, the lack of formal council approval and accusations of political manipulation cast doubt on its feasibility.
