Kween: Keen District LCV Chairperson Paul Kapchemeiko Machinjaj today locked out staff at the district headquarters after arriving at about 8:00 a.m. and finding most offices empty.

Machinjaj said he had come to meet the Chief Administrative Officer and other district officials, but found no staff at their workstations. He said staff only started arriving one by one after 9:00 a.m.

The Chairperson described the situation as unacceptable, reminding staff that official working hours run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

He said any staff member unable to report on time should notify the Chief Administrative Officer in advance, particularly in cases of sickness or other emergencies.

Machinjaj also expressed concern that even the Chief Administrative Officer was not at the office when he arrived.

The LCV Chairperson said this was not the first time he had taken action over late coming, warning staff against what he described as attempts to undermine his leadership.

He announced that, starting tomorrow, he will be at the district headquarters by 7:30 a.m. to monitor staff attendance.

Machinjaj also revealed that an executive meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, where selected heads of departments will be invited as the district prepares to receive the Minister of Local Government on Thursday.

He further urged staff to remain focused on their duties, saying he has worked with some of them for many years, including during his previous assignments in Kapchorwa.

The Chairperson’s action has sparked discussion among district staff, with the incident highlighting concerns over punctuality and accountability in public service.