By Mike Rwothomio

His Majesty Ubimu Phillip Rauni Olarker III, the Alur King (Ker Alur), has called on newly sworn-in Members of Parliament from Greater Nebbi to shift focus from short-term handouts to sustainable socio-economic development projects that can transform the region.

In a statement issued on behalf of the King by Kingdom Communications Director David Rupiny during a recent function in Kampala, the Alur Kingdom congratulated Hon. Topista Acamfua and all Greater Nebbi MPs on their swearing-in, expressing high hopes in their leadership.

The King particularly applauded the MPs for beginning their parliamentary journey by thanking God, describing it as the right foundation. He also reminded them of the need to seek the royal and cultural blessing of the Ubimu upon his return to Dye Winam Atyak.

Quoting Bishop Constantine Rupiny’s recent homily, the King stressed the importance of reconciliation and unity among leaders for the betterment of Zombo District and the entire Greater Nebbi region.

“Put socio-economic empowerment and development of our homeland front-and-centre,” the statement said.

While acknowledging that giving money for weddings, burials, and other social functions is acceptable, the King warned against over-reliance on such handouts.

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Excessive focus on handouts creates dependency, undermines long-term self-reliance, and fails to address structural challenges, according to some leaders.

The King made it clear that the performance of the MPs over the next five years will be judged by the tangible socio-economic dividends they deliver to the people, not by how much they distribute in cash or kind during social events.

He urged the MPs to work collectively on strategic infrastructure and economic initiatives, including the tarmacking of the Nebbi-Goli-Paidha-Zombo-Zeu-Warr-Vura Road, which is expected to create numerous forward and backward economic linkages.

He also urged leaders to actively participate on the revival of Okoro Coffee Growers’ Cooperative Union and Tea Factory in the region.

“Represent the people of Zombo well. Raise the Zombo Flag higher, just like all Greater Nebbi MPs,” the King said, adding that “Ker Alur is for all” without discrimination.

His Majesty Ubimu Phillip Rauni Ularker III

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at Zoomer Africa, your number one grassroot information hub for African stories trends and updates.