STRENGTHENING ETHICAL VALUESAND ACCOUNTABILITY IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE: CITIZEN-LED STRATEGIES IN THE GREATER KIGEZI SUB-REGION OF UGANDA

Concerns persist regarding the effectiveness of ethical and accountability systems in public administration in Uganda. Addressing these challenges requires examining the role of citizens in promoting ethics and accountability in public service delivery and exploring the strategies to strengthen ethical values and accountability in local governments.This study sought to establish the role of citizens in enhancing ethics and accountability in public service delivery and to explore strategies for promoting ethical values which inturn can strengthen accountability mechanisms in local governments. The study was guided by the following research questions: What is the role of citizens in enhancing ethics and accountability in public service delivery? What strategies can help promote sound ethical values so as to strengthen accountability mechanisms in local governments?The methodology combined both qualitative and quantitative approaches that includedsurveys and interviewswith local government technical and political officials as well community leaders. Findings reveal that while local government initiatives often fall short in involving citizens adequately, empowering communities through education, sensitization and active participation in decision-making processes is identified as a key strategy for fostering ethical values and reinforcing accountability in local governance. The study also underscores the importance of reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and enhancing collaboration between local governments and civil society organizations. In conclusion, the study advocates for strengthening citizen engagement mechanisms, promoting transparency, and addressing structural barriers that hinder accountability in Ugandas local governance systems. Recommendations focus on: empowering citizens to combat corruptionstrengthening political accountability in local governments limiting the use of discretionary powers salary review and harmonization adopting the Malaysian anti-Corruption model and reviewing institutional frameworks for fighting corruption.