Dokolo, Uganda | Joseph Jones Ogwal Omara, a leading contender for the NRM party flag in Dokolo North Constituency, has criticized the incumbent Member of Parliament for allegedly prioritizing alcohol for youth instead of addressing urgent development needs in the region.
While addressing hundreds of supporters at Myro Angwen Ward in Agwata Town Council, Ogwal Omara expressed concern that while communities across Dokolo continue to suffer from poor health services, limited access to clean water, and rampant youth unemployment, the sitting MP was reportedly using his resources to promote alcohol consumption among young people.
He stated that such behaviour did not reflect true leadership and stressed the need for a shift in priorities toward meaningful development.
He also alleged that some of his rivals in the NRM race were resorting to intimidation tactics against his supporters out of fear of losing in the upcoming primaries.
Despite this, Ogwal Omara expressed confidence in winning the July 16 vote and pledged to partner closely with Dokolo District NRM Chairperson Geoffrey Opio Ekong to rebuild the party and restore its integrity.
His comments were met with loud support from voters, many of whom described him as a unifying figure and a symbol of hope.
Support for Ogwal Omara has surged across the constituency, particularly outside Agwata Subcounty, where his rivals had traditionally enjoyed strong backing.
Several voters reported that some of Ogwal Omara’s supporters had rejected a UGX 1 million bribe allegedly offered by a rival candidate, viewing the incident as evidence that Dokolo residents were now more focused on integrity and transformation rather than short-term gains.
Odyek Denis, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Agwata Town Council, welcomed Ogwal Omara and encouraged the voters to support him, describing him as the most capable candidate to deliver change and progress in Dokolo North.
Okwany Robert, a resident of Amwoma Subcounty, explained that the main reason for the day’s event was to officially introduce Ogwal Omara to the people.
He said that out of the four candidates seeking the party ticket, Ogwal Omara possessed the strongest leadership qualities and the deepest concern for the welfare of the people.
He observed that Dokolo had previously elected leaders who often forgot about the people after securing their positions.
He called upon voters to reflect carefully and choose a candidate who is genuinely passionate about serving the community.
Evaline Ocen, the NRM Women’s League Chairperson for Agwata Town Council, lamented what she saw as a series of internal challenges within the NRM party in Dokolo.
She pointed to divisions, political sabotage, and the election of underperforming leaders as key reasons for the district’s persistent poverty and stagnation.
She also criticized some candidates for using threats during the election period despite having no track record of delivery.
She urged voters to reject such leaders, likening the incumbent MP to someone who had just been awakened from deep sleep using cold water.
Tonny Oboko Ario from Adok Subcounty remarked that many people were taking this election seriously because they were eager for a new era under the NRM.
He argued that the current and previous MPs from Agwata Subcounty had failed to deliver on their promises and called on the electorate to consider supporting a candidate from a different subcounty, such as Ogwal Omara, who could offer a fresh approach and better results.
Ogwal Omara’s recent contributions to the constituency have strengthened his grassroots appeal.
He donated 50 bags of cement and cash to Agwata Catholic Parish, supported youth and boda boda football teams with full sports kits, and provided financial assistance to churches and local groups.
In Acoto Ward, he recently funded the purchase of a public address system with UGX 1 million and made a similar donation to a development group in Myro Angwen.
His campaign manifesto prioritizes education, healthcare, vocational skills training for youth, support to women-led SACCOs, rural electrification, and clean, safe water access in every village.
Following the rally in Miro Angwen, Ogwal Omara proceeded to Acoto Ward, where residents also turned out in large numbers to show support.
Many expressed their disappointment with the incumbent, accusing him of neglecting his duties and abandoning the majority of the population in favour of a select few.