Leaders and residents from the West Nile sub-region have expressed disappointment over the newly announced Cabinet appointments by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, arguing that the region has once again been sidelined from top government positions.
The concerns follow the release of the 2026–2031 Cabinet list, in which West Nile was allocated only State Minister positions, with no full Cabinet ministerial slot.
Regional leaders say the appointments fall short of the expectations of the people of West Nile, who they argue have consistently supported the ruling National Resistance Movement during elections.
Fadhil Lemeriga, the Prime Minister of Aringa Chiefdom, said that while Aringa secured two State Minister positions, the wider region remains dissatisfied with its level of representation in government.
According to Lemeriga, State Minister positions may not provide enough influence to effectively push for the region’s development priorities and national interests.
He appealed to President Museveni to consider additional appointments for West Nile in recognition of the region’s continued political support.
The latest Cabinet reshuffle also saw several prominent figures from West Nile dropped from government positions.
Among those left out are Moses Ali, who served as Second Deputy Prime Minister, Mario Obiga Kania, former State Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Moriku Kaducu, former State Minister for Primary Education, and Evelyn Anite, who previously served as State Minister for Investment and Privatization.
Despite the concerns, several leaders from the region secured State Minister appointments in the new Cabinet.
Phiona Nyamutoro from Nebbi District was appointed State Minister for Minerals under the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development.
Charles Ayume of Koboko Municipality was named State Minister for Health in charge of Primary Health Care, while Alioni Yorke Odria from Aringa South was appointed State Minister for ICT and National Guidance.
Others include Huda Oleru, who retained her role as State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, Tom Aza from Moyo, appointed State Minister for Trade in charge of Cooperatives, and Siraji Musa Ali, son of Gen. Moses Ali, who was appointed State Minister for Works and Transport.
The debate over regional balance in Cabinet appointments continues to generate discussion across the country as communities assess their representation in the new administration.
