The outgoing Gulu City Mayor, Alfred Okwonga, officially handed over the mayoral office and all government property to the City Town Clerk on Friday, May 8, 2026, marking the end of his tenure in local government leadership.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at Gulu City Hall, Okwonga described the role as both a sacrifice and an opportunity.
He called on God to guide the incoming leaders: “I pray to God to guide and bless the new leaders taking over so that they serve our people with integrity and humility.”
Okwonga said he was leaving with the same excitement he had when he first took office: “I am very excited to leave office, just as I was excited when I came in to serve our people.”
Reflecting on his tenure, he noted that progress takes time: “We did a good job, but you cannot do everything in one day. You pick one thing at a time and implement it. I hand over this office with respect and goodwill; it is a relay.”
In his farewell remarks, he promised to remain available to serve: “May God bless us all, bless the people of Gulu City, and I forever remain available at your service.”
Resident City Commissioner Peter Banya praised Okwonga for committed and visionary leadership, saying his contribution to Gulu City’s growth will be remembered.
Banya pledged continued support and cooperation with the outgoing mayor, even outside public office.
The ceremony drew city leaders, technical staff, political leaders, and supporters who gathered to witness the transition.
The handover marks a new chapter for Gulu City as new leadership takes over, following a tenure widely credited with strengthening local governance systems.
