Your Village, Your Voice: Uganda Youth Urged to Shape Leadership as LC1 Polls Approach

By Denis Mukisa

With just weeks remaining before Uganda goes to polls to elect their village leaders on July 28, Kayunga’s Resident District Commissioner is making a direct appeal to the district’s young people: register, vote, and take charge of your village’s future.

At the grassroots level, village council chairpersons and their executive committees, locally known as LC1, are the leaders closest to the people. They handle local security, resolve disputes, approve small community projects, and influence daily matters that affect young residents. These include organising youth savings and credit groups, supporting sports activities, and addressing unemployment concerns.

Nsimbi Jimmy Mugwanya, the Resident District Commissioner for Kayunga, says the youth should no longer sit on the sidelines.

“The youth must register in large numbers and participate actively. Do not allow yourselves to be used by anyone to cause chaos,” Mugwanya said. “This is your village. Your voice matters in choosing leaders who will address the issues you face every day.”

The RDC issued a strong warning to those planning to disrupt the electoral process. He stated that the law is ready and waiting for them. He emphasised that the election should be an opportunity for constructive engagement rather than violence or manipulation.

For many young people in rural villages, LC1 leaders are more than just officials. They are neighbours who can respond quickly to local problems. Whether mediating conflicts between young farmers, supporting skills development initiatives, or ensuring village safety at night, these grassroots leaders often have the most direct impact on youth livelihoods.

Mugwanya reminded the youth that registering and voting is not just a civic duty, but a powerful tool to influence who controls resources and opportunities at the village level.

“These elections give you the chance to choose responsible leaders who can promote peace, unity, and development in your community,” he said. “Leadership at this level directly affects your daily life, including security, dispute resolution, and community projects that matter to you.”

With over 71,000 villages set to elect new LC1 leaders nationwide, the polls represent one of the most direct opportunities for young Ugandans to determine the kind of leadership they want at the foundation of society.

As the countdown to July 28 continues, the message from Kayunga is clear. The youth should register before the deadline, reject violence, and seize this chance to become kingmakers in their own villages.