Parliament has today voted for the creation of 15 new cities in the country.
The cities to be created over four years are Jinja, Mbarara, Fort Portal, Masaka, Mbale, Arua, Gulu, Hoima, Lira, Soroti, Entebbe, Moroto, Nakasongola, Kabale and Wakiso.
With a majority of 312 votes out of 313, MPs voted for the Motion for resolution of Parliament on alteration of boundaries under Art 179(1) A of the Constitution and declaration of cities under Section 7(2a) of the Local Gov’t Act.
The Minister of state for Mineral Development Sarah Opendi voted against the motion to create new cities and municipalities, stating that it’s not right for Parliament to consider creation of new cities without first knowing the economic implication of Covid-19.
Opendi wanted consideration of the approval of these cities wait until the minister of finance present a statement on the status of the economy as the country is facing COVID-19 pandemic.
She said that the budget that was passed by Parliament does not fully address the demands of some of the local governments, town councils and sub counties.
Cities which shall take effect on 1st July 2020 include; Arua, Gulu, Jinja, Mbarara, Fortportal, Mbale and Masaka.
Hoima, Soroti and Lira shall take effect on 1st July 2021.
Entebbe shall take effect on 1st July 2022.
Moroto, Nakasongola, Kabale and Wakiso Cities shall take effect on 1st July 2023.
It’s estimated that about Shs130b will be budgeted for the operation of these cities.
