Celebrations erupted in Bukomansimbi Central after independent candidate Bashir Kagimu was declared the winner of the LC1 chairperson race, defeating National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Dirisa Ssemanda with 174 votes.
Speaking shortly after his victory, an emotional Kagimu thanked residents for entrusting him with the leadership of the village, saying the overwhelming support he received left him deeply humbled.
"I am very happy because the people have trusted and supported me. I thank them so much, and I promise to serve them diligently and ensure they benefit from government programmes," Kagimu said.
He said the confidence demonstrated by voters was a great responsibility and pledged not to disappoint them.
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"The support people have given me has brought tears to my eyes. I am deeply humbled by the trust they have placed in me, and I will not let them down," he said.
Kagimu pledged to transform Bukomansimbi Central through improved service delivery and ensuring residents benefit from government programmes.
Immediately after his election, Kagimu unveiled the executive committee that will work alongside him in leading the village. He urged residents to support the new team, describing its members as capable, trustworthy, and committed to serving the community.
"I have carefully chosen people I believe have the ability and integrity to serve this community. I have confidence in each one of them, and I ask residents to give them the support they need to deliver," he said.
The newly elected chairperson also warned members of his executive committee against abusing their positions, saying leadership should be centred on service and unity.
"Anyone who joins this leadership with the intention of fighting fellow residents instead of serving them will not have a place in my administration. Leadership is about serving people, not creating divisions," Kagimu emphasized.
He said all members of the committee had pledged to work together and remain focused on the interests of Bukomansimbi Central residents.
Among his appointments, Kagimu named Magret Nakayiza, commonly known as Maama Mega, as village Vice Chairperson, citing her honesty and commitment to the community.
"I chose Maama Mega because she has proven to be trustworthy and dedicated to the community," he said.
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He appointed Gerald Ssemwogere as Treasurer, describing him as a reliable person capable of safeguarding village resources, while Joseph Kalya was named Secretary alongside other committee members.
Kagimu called on the new leaders to uphold honesty, transparency, and accountability as they serve residents.
"I expect every member of this leadership to be faithful, transparent and committed to serving all residents equally. Together we shall build a better Bukomansimbi Central," he said.
Residents welcomed the newly unveiled executive committee, expressing confidence that the team would work together to improve the welfare of the village.
"We have confidence in the team our new chairperson has selected. We believe these leaders will work together to bring development and improve the lives of the people in our village," Abdul Salaam, a resident, said.
Kagimu's victory adds to the growing number of independent candidates who have emerged successful in the recently concluded LC1 elections in Bukomansimbi District, with many pledging to prioritise grassroots development and effective service delivery.
