Soroti City, the heart of Teso sub-region, has been undergoing a remarkable transformation, leaving many residents in awe of its newfound cleanliness and beauty.
However, the question on everyone’s lips is: who is behind this impressive change?
While some attribute the city’s beautification to Captain Mike Mukula, a prominent businessman and politician, others assert that the initiative is a government-led project.
This debate has sparked a flurry of speculations and discussions among Soroti City residents.
Captain Mukula has been at the forefront of the cleaning exercise, often seen supervising activities aimed at revitalizing the city’s image.
His visible involvement has led many to believe he is personally funding the project.
Some locals including Soroti City East Mayor Paul Omer speculate that Mukula’s efforts are politically motivated, aimed at boosting his influence in Soroti City ahead of the next elections.
There are also rumors that Mukula’s son is planning to contest for the Soroti City West parliamentary seat, currently held by Jonathan Ebwalu, a former manager at Mukula’s radio station.
Omer during an interview with NBS TV claimed that Mukula’s involvement in the beautification exercise is a strategic move to sway voters in favor of his son.
However, recent revelations have also challenged the narrative of Mukula’s sole responsibility.
His Royal Highness Paul Sande Emolot, the Iteso Cultural Union leader (Emorimor), has clarified that the ongoing beautification is a government-funded initiative.
Speaking to the media at his residence in Tororo, Emolot revealed that the government allocated 120 million Uganda Shillings for the cleaning exercise as part of the preparations for the Ateker Reunion celebrations.
According to the Emorimor, Captain Mukula played a leading role in implementing the project in collaboration with the Iteso Cultural Union.
“Beautifying the town was part of the government’s plan for the Ateker Reunion celebrations,” Emolot explained.
“Captain Mukula took the lead in conjunction with the Iteso Cultural Union. No individual has used personal funds for this exercise, it’s government money.”
While some praise Mukula for his hands-on involvement, others criticize what they perceive as an attempt to claim credit for a government project.
“What matters is the outcome,” says Grace Alupo, a trader in Soroti City.
“Whether it’s Mukula or the government, we are happy to see our city clean and beautiful.”
As the debate rages on, one thing remains clear: the beautification of Soroti City has not only transformed its appearance but also ignited conversations about accountability, transparency, and the intersection of politics and development.
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