Controversy has erupted in Nakapiripirit after NRM councillor flag bearer for Moruita Sub-county, Mr. James Korobe, called for the removal of Mr. Loonye John Kiyonga from his position as Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC).
Korobe alleges that Loonye, an NRM cadre, has been supporting a rival candidate, Mr. Richard Logwe Panyangara, to challenge him in the upcoming elections. Korobe defeated Loonye by a wide margin in the July NRM primaries for the Moruita Councillor seat, making Loonye’s actions appear contradictory to party principles.
Critics also question Loonye’s academic qualifications, claiming he has never sat for the Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), a basic requirement for RDC or ARDC roles under Uganda’s Constitution. Observers describe his appointment as irregular, especially since he lost in party primaries.
The current RDC, Ajilong Bessic Modestar, is away in India for training. Loonye was appointed by President Yoweri Museveni on July 11, 2025, increasing the number of RDCs in Nakapiripirit to four—more than the usual three in other districts. Former RDC George Owanyi was removed under unclear circumstances, raising further questions about political influence in these appointments.
Meanwhile, Loonye has been actively engaging with Karimojong herders recently evicted from the Pian-Upe Game Reserve by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, while observers continue to debate the legitimacy and timing of his controversial appointment.
