Following the termination of Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL) Board Chair Lydia Ochieng-Obbo, her daughter Elaine Alowo Matovu has publicly celebrated her mother’s tenure, describing it as a period of service and purpose despite the abrupt end over the weekend.
Ochieng-Obbo’s removal was announced on Saturday, May 2, 2026, by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development as part of a wider governance shake-up at the utility.
The ministry said the changes were aimed at improving accountability, operational efficiency, and overall performance in the electricity distribution sector.
The move also saw the company’s Managing Director placed on forced leave as authorities initiated a broader review of management.
While the decision has generated public debate, Ochieng-Obbo’s daughter turned to social media to reflect on her mother’s leadership journey, framing it as one defined by duty rather than duration.
“Today we celebrated my mother for the gift of her service,” she wrote.
In her message, she emphasized the principle her mother has lived by throughout her public service career, noting resilience and commitment even in uncertain circumstances.
“She taught us one lesson I will carry forever: We still do good things anyway.”
Elaine further highlighted that leadership, in her view, is not measured by time in office but by the willingness to contribute meaningfully while serving.
“Whether our time on the stage is two days or three, we step up to the challenge, do our part, do it well — and then step off the stage to let others continue the good work.”
She also acknowledged her mother’s brief tenure at the helm of the board, describing it as an honour to serve the country in that capacity.
“It has been an absolute honour for her to serve this country as Chair of the Board for these 8 months.”
The leadership changes at UEDCL come at a time when the energy sector is under increased scrutiny, with government citing performance concerns, including rising electricity losses and operational inefficiencies flagged in recent regulatory reviews.
The Ministry of Energy has maintained that the restructuring is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen service delivery and ensure better management of national power distribution systems.