By Dickens Twinomujuni
Kisoro District LC5 Chairperson Abel Bizimana has rejected recent district council resolutions directing him to hand over the keys of the chairman’s official vehicle to the district driver.
Mr Bizimana insists that the vehicle was lawfully allocated to him in his capacity as the district’s political head.
During a Kisoro District Council sitting held on 22/12/2025, which the chairperson boycotted, councillors accused Bizimana of using the official vehicle for political campaign activities and transporting unauthorised passengers.
Raising the matter, Juliet Kamusiime, the Female Councillor representing Nyanamo Town Council and Bukimbiri County, warned that such actions could expose the district to financial risk.
“The chairperson is reportedly using the district vehicle for campaigns and carrying passengers who are not authorised,” Kamusiime told council.
“This could cost the district heavily in case of damage.”
In response, District Speaker Amos Hakizimana directed the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) to clarify whether a designated district driver had been assigned to the LC5 Chairperson and ordered that, if available, the vehicle keys be handed over to the official driver.
“Government property must be protected and managed according to the law,” Hakizimana said.
Kisoro District CAO John Nyakahuma later confirmed that the district has a government-payrolled driver ready to take responsibility for the vehicle and condemned the alleged misuse.
“Using a government vehicle for political campaigns is contrary to public service regulations,” Nyakahuma said.
Responding to this, Bizimana said he is entitled to use the vehicle for official duties as long as he remains in office, dismissing claims that his actions violate the law.
“The vehicle was officially allocated to me as the LCV Chairperson, and I have the right to use it while I am still in office,” Bizimana said.
“My use of the vehicle is in line with the Constitution and government procedures.”
What do the Public Service Standing Orders say?
Government vehicles shall be driven by official drivers, except:-
(a) a public officer specifically engaged to drive or operate vehicles or plant;
(b) a public officer in the mechanical sections of Ministries, Departments or Local
Government units in the course of their duties; for example, when inspecting,
testing, running in and demonstrating vehicles;
(c) a public officer who has written permission from a Responsible Officer; or
(d) a public officer who, in case of emergency, shall write a report to explain the
circumstances.
As the standoff continues, district leaders are calling for clearer guidance on the balance between political entitlement to official vehicles and administrative control under public service regulations, to safeguard public assets and reduce institutional conflict.
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