Ebong Michael

Lira, Uganda | Police in Lira City Central Division have launched investigations into the mysterious death of a hotel manager who was found lifeless in his room on Tuesday morning. The deceased has been identified as Opio Robert, 45, a manager at Rehema Hotel, located in Tedam Cell, Barogole Ward, Lira City West Division. According to preliminary police findings, Opio was last seen on the evening of October 27, 2025, in the company of other hotel staff before retiring to his room later that night. However, he was discovered dead the following morning, at around 7:30 a.m., on October 28, 2025. Police were immediately notified, and a team led by the Division Police Commander (DPC) responded to the scene. The Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO), together with detectives, documented the scene and collected relevant evidence. The body was later taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital Mortuary for a postmortem examination to establish the exact cause of death. Relatives told police that the deceased had a history of epilepsy, which they suspect might have contributed to his sudden death. Statements have been recorded from both hotel staff and family members as investigations continue. The North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, described the incident as very unfortunate and conveyed condolences to the bereaved family. He noted that the postmortem report would guide their next course of investigation. Source

Lira, Uganda | Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH) has announced plans to hold its second community engagement Baraza on 14 November 2025 under the theme “The Role of the Community in Improving Health Service Delivery.” The event forms part of a national effort to promote transparency, enhance public participation, and strengthen health governance at the regional level. Hospital Director, Dr. Andrew Odur said the Baraza has been organised to provide citizens with an opportunity to understand how the hospital is utilised, engage with administrators, and share constructive ideas to improve healthcare services. He explained that the engagement would also aim to increase public awareness of the hospital’s services and seek practical solutions to long-standing challenges. Dr. Odur indicated that religious, cultural, and civic leaders, alongside key opinion leaders, had been invited because of their influence in shaping community behaviour and mobilising citizens around health-related matters. He noted that their involvement would be crucial in efforts to eradicate diseases such as cancer and malaria, among others, and in ensuring appropriate use of referral systems across health centres. The upcoming Baraza follows the inaugural engagement held on 6 March 2025, which became a pivotal moment in the hospital’s reform and accountability drive. During that event, officials raised serious concerns about misuse of the hospital facility, including congestion resulting from patients bypassing lower-level health units, allegations of corruption, theft of government drugs, and the spread of misinformation on social media platforms. Stakeholders also expressed concern over rising cases of teenage pregnancy, increasing child mortality rates, and the growing prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as cancer and sickle cell anaemia, which continue to strain the hospital’s resources. Participants recommended strengthening the hospital’s infrastructure, recruiting more specialists, enhancing security through a police post, and mobilising communities to abandon harmful cultural practices affecting public health. Hospital authorities reported that feedback from the first Baraza guided several interventions aimed at improving service delivery, decentralising healthcare services, and increasing institutional accountability. Dr. Odur stated that the second Baraza would be used to assess progress made since the first engagement, identify remaining challenges, and align strategies toward better health outcomes for the population. The event is expected to draw leaders from multiple sectors who will deliberate on collaborative measures to promote disease prevention, early diagnosis, and responsible access to healthcare services. It will also serve as a monitoring and evaluation mechanism in line with national health accountability standards. The Baraza is seen as a continuation of a broader shift toward community-led healthcare reform, in which citizens play an active role in shaping public health systems rather than merely being recipients of medical services. Source

Dokolo, Uganda | Fifteen parliamentary candidates from six political parties and independent tickets in Dokolo District have committed to a peaceful and coordinated campaign period after successfully harmonising their campaign schedules during a meeting held at the Electoral Commission (EC) offices on Monday. The meeting, chaired by the District Returning Officer, Moses Otim, finalised the campaign roadmap for Woman MP, constituency MPs, and District Chairperson races. Otim confirmed that the official campaign period will begin on 10 November 2025 and end on 12 January 2026, warning that any campaign activities before that date are prohibited. He said candidates had agreed on specific venues and timelines to prevent clashes and congestion, adding that campaigns will be conducted strictly between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM. He further reminded aspirants of regulations prohibiting the placement of campaign posters in public institutions such as schools and hospitals, as well as the ban on donations during the campaign period. Gloria Akullo, Democratic Party (DP) flagbearer for Dokolo Woman MP, described the meeting as constructive and unifying. She said candidates had interacted in a cordial manner and expressed confidence that the district would witness a calm, issue-based campaign season. She urged fellow candidates to respect the will of the voters and allow the electorate to decide without provocation or intimidation. Janet Rose Adongo Elau, National Resistance Movement (NRM) flagbearer for the same seat, said the agreement ensures no candidate will interfere with another’s campaign activities. She noted that NRM candidates plan to coordinate their efforts at joint campaign points, mirroring similar arrangements by other political groups. Julius Engwau, DP candidate for Dokolo South MP, said all aspirants now know their assigned campaign areas and dates in line with the EC roadmap, eliminating chances of confrontation. Dokolo District Police Commander, SP Patience Baganzi, said security will be a top priority during the campaign season. She urged candidates to liaise with security agencies when hosting national party leaders to ensure compliance with the agreed roadmap. She warned against the mobilisation of hooligans or provocative groups, describing them as a threat to public safety. She also called on candidates and media houses to refrain from hate speech and to respect restricted areas such as schools where examinations will be underway. A total of 15 candidates from NRM, UPC, Democratic Party, Democratic Front, NUP, FDC, and independents are contesting for various parliamentary seats in Dokolo District. The harmonisation meeting was attended by several candidates in person, while others sent official representatives. The Electoral Commission says the agreed roadmap is binding and will be enforced to guarantee an orderly campaign period, free from clashes and venue disputes. Source

Amolatar, Uganda | Residents of Alwala Village in Acii Sub County, Amolatar District, have commended Rtd. Col. Dr. John Francis Ongia for rehabilitating a borehole that had remained non-functional for several years, forcing the community to rely on unsafe swamp water shared with animals. The restoration has ended years of water scarcity and reduced the health risks faced by the residents. Bonny Okello, the LC1 chairperson of Alwala, said Dr. Ongia personally funded the repair by purchasing new pipes and coordinating the rehabilitation. He noted that the borehole had been abandoned for a long time and that Dr. Ongia’s support had brought great relief to the people of Alwala. Okello added that the residents are now determined to support him in the 2026 parliamentary elections. Etap Beatrice, a resident, said the lack of clean water had previously endangered women and girls who were forced to walk long distances, often late at night, in search of water. She explained that the restoration of the borehole has brought safety and convenience to the community, describing Dr. Ongia as God-sent and affirming that the residents will vote for him. Bonny Otim, the chairperson of the Alwala Water Management Committee, also applauded Dr. Ongia’s intervention, saying it demonstrated practical and people-centered leadership. For nearly a decade, residents said no leader had addressed their water challenges. With the borehole now functional, many view Rtd. Col. Dr. Ongia as a leader who delivers tangible results. Rtd. Col. Dr. John Francis Ongia is contesting as an independent candidate for the Kioga County parliamentary seat in the 2026 general elections. Source

Kampala, Uganda | The Uganda Police Force (UPF) has announced the recruitment of 100,000 Election Special Police Constables to support the force during the forthcoming general elections. According to a statement signed by AIGP Jesse Kamunawire, on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, the recruitment exercise targets Ugandan citizens of good conduct who will serve on a three-month contract with a monthly remuneration of UGX 469,000. The successful applicants will be deployed to serve within their respective districts of residence, ensuring effective security and coordination during the election period. Minimum Requirements Applicants must be Ugandan citizens aged 18 years and above, possess a National Identity Card, and have at least a Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) certificate. Other key requirements include: A clean criminal record. Proven volunteer experience with the UPF (added advantage). Physical fitness and readiness to work under challenging conditions. Good communication skills. Registration as a voter in the area of recruitment. Willingness to undergo a one-month basic security training course. The notice further emphasizes that serving officers in any of the armed forces are not eligible, and women are strongly encouraged to apply. Application Process Interested and qualified candidates are required to submit handwritten applications addressed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP). The application must include photocopies of academic documents, a National ID, one recent passport-size photograph, and recommendation letters from the LC I, LC III, and GISO of the applicant’s area of residence. All applications should be delivered to the respective District or Divisional Police Headquarters not later than November 1, 2025. The police warned that impersonation or presentation of forged documents will lead to arrest and prosecution. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews on dates to be communicated later. Source

Kole, Uganda | Former Kole North parliamentary aspirant, Awongo Patrick Ogwal, has announced his withdrawal from the 2026 parliamentary race, pledging full support to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. In a statement issued on Monday, Ogwal expressed his gratitude to the NRM leadership at all levels, praising the Central Executive Committee, National Executive Committee, and grassroots mobilisers for what he described as exceptional commitment during President Museveni’s recent campaigns in the Lango Sub-region. He commended President Museveni for his “visionary leadership,” attributing Uganda’s stability and socio-economic progress to the President’s guidance and resilience. Ogwal said his decision to withdraw is based on consultations and advice from President Museveni and senior party leaders. Ogwal admitted dissatisfaction with the NRM primaries in Kole North, stating the process did not reflect full transparency, leading to his second-place finish. He initially considered running as an independent candidate. However, he said he has withdrawn his candidature in favour of Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti, the NRM flag bearer, to preserve unity and consolidate support for President Museveni’s re-election bid in 2026. Ogwal congratulated all NRM candidates who secured nominations, including local council leaders and Members of Parliament. He singled out Speaker of Parliament Rt Hon Annet Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Rt Hon Thomas Tayebwa, both of whom were nominated unopposed, describing their uncontested victories as a sign of the NRM’s national strength. He reiterated his commitment to mobilising support across Lango Subregion, saying he will deploy his political structures, originally formed under the MK Movement, now aligned with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), to rally votes for President Museveni and NRM candidates. He reaffirmed his allegiance to the NRM and emphasised that his focus will now be on strengthening the party’s mobilisation machinery to ensure victory in the 2026 general elections. Source

Lira, Uganda | Maros Atine known by his stage name Professor Maros has rejected claims by a section of Lango artists accusing him of withholding UGX 10 million allegedly allocated by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) to pay musicians who performed during Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero’s post-nomination rally on 23 October 2025 at Lira Tipper Stage. The allegations were raised by some local artists who claimed they were promised payment for their performances during the celebrations that followed Dr. Aceng’s nomination as Lira City Woman MP. In a phone interview on Monday, Prof. Maros dismissed the claims as baseless and politically driven. He said he had no knowledge of any funds designated for artists and stated that he was not responsible for any financial arrangements made for the event. He explained that some of those who performed and were complaining about him had arrived after seeing the large crowds and were not formally contracted by the organising team. He stated that the duty to facilitate performers lay with the organising committee and not with him personally. He further indicated that the allegations appeared to be an attempt to politically discredit him due to his strong public support for Dr. Aceng’s candidacy. He advised those making accusations to seek answers through official NRM party structures rather than circulating claims in the media, adding that he was not aware of any artist who was officially entitled to payment. Ogwang Walter alias Lil Square, the head of Apatang Music Empire, stated that he had been contacted by Prof. Maros to perform at the rally. He said that after performing, he was informed that his name was not on the official programme and therefore would not receive payment. He claimed he had expected to be paid UGX 1 million for his contribution and was now pursuing the matter through formal party channels, while warning that he would make the issue public if it is not resolved. The NRM Publicity Secretary for Lira City, Jacob Ocen, said the party office had not received any formal complaint regarding the matter. He reported that he was not aware of any arrangement involving local artists, did not know who had mobilised them, and had no information on the source of the alleged UGX 10 million. He said the absence of formal documentation made it difficult to respond immediately but indicated that he would engage the organising committee to ascertain the facts. The dispute arose following the nomination of Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, who is seeking re-election as Lira City Woman Member of Parliament in the 2025/2026 general elections. The post-nomination rally attracted large crowds and featured performances by numerous local artists, some of whom are now demanding clarity on financial arrangements. Source

Soroti, Uganda | The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda and Central Executive Committee (CEC) member, David Calvin Echodu, has urged party leaders across the Teso sub-region to put aside internal differences and intensify mobilisation efforts ahead of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s upcoming campaign tour. The meeting, held today at Hursey Resort Hotel in Soroti City, brought together district chairpersons, Members of Parliament, party flag bearers, and security officials. It focused on final preparations to ensure a strong turnout and coordinated reception for the President, whose tour will begin in Kapelebyong District later this week. Echodu said the time had come for Teso to demonstrate its unity and loyalty to the NRM by mobilising at all levels. He emphasised that divisions resulting from the recent party primaries must now give way to reconciliation, teamwork, and collective action. He noted that other regions such as West Nile, Acholi, and Karamoja had already shown overwhelming enthusiasm during the President’s mobilisation drives and challenged Teso to deliver an even stronger show of support. He described the mobilisation effort as a team sport, saying success would depend on coordination and commitment from all party leaders. The meeting also discussed regional priorities expected to feature in the President’s message, including infrastructure development, youth employment, and peace consolidation. On her part, NRM Director for Mobilisation Dr. Rose Mary Seninde unveiled a new Village-Based Mobilisation Strategy that will empower local committees of 54 members per village to conduct door-to-door campaigns. She said this approach will strengthen the party’s structures at the grassroots and ensure higher voter turnout in the 2026 general elections. Seninde also warned party members running as independents after losing in the primaries, saying such actions undermine unity and confuse supporters. She urged leaders to rally behind official NRM flag bearers and maintain discipline within party ranks. Echodu appealed to all Teso leaders and supporters to welcome the President in large numbers and reaffirm their commitment to the NRM. He said unity, discipline, and effective mobilisation would guarantee victory for both the President and the party’s candidates across Eastern Uganda. Source

Lira, Uganda | Anai Primary School in Lira City is set to present 50 candidates for the 2025 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE), including two children with disabilities, in what education stakeholders have hailed as a strong demonstration of inclusive learning and community commitment to equal opportunity. The candidates consist of 25 boys and 25 girls, reflecting gender parity and the school’s effort to promote balanced access to education. Headteacher Joel Rokko Ojok urged parents to remain supportive and avoid spreading distressing rumours that could disrupt the emotional stability of the candidates. He said the timely payment of school fees by parents had enabled the school to operate smoothly and adequately prepare pupils for national examinations. Joel Olipa, Chairperson of the Lango Headteachers’ Association, blamed poor academic performance in some schools on conflicts within foundation bodies. He said divisions rooted in religious affiliations had resulted in the rejection of government-posted teachers, affecting staff deployment and educational standards. Olipa appealed to management committees and parents to set aside institutional differences and focus on strengthening education across the region. Delivering his sermon, Fr. Isaac Ojok of Anai Catholic Parish described education as the backbone of national transformation. He condemned cultural practices that prioritise early marriage for girls in exchange for dowry, warning that such beliefs hinder development. He called on parents to keep their daughters in school, saying the future of the region depends on educated citizens. Lira City West Division Secretary for Health and Education, Denish Adyebo, encouraged residents to enrol their children in local government-aided schools, which he said offer quality education and are accessible to all social groups. Representing Lira City authorities, Adyebo commended teachers for returning to work following recent industrial action and pledged continued advocacy for better salaries and improved working conditions. The inclusion of pupils with disabilities among the PLE candidates has been widely welcomed as a progressive step in advancing inclusive education. Community leaders have praised Anai Primary School for providing equal learning opportunities and setting an example for other institutions in the Lango Subregion. Education stakeholders say this year’s candidate group reflects a unified effort to improve academic performance, promote gender equality, and support learners with special needs as part of a broader goal to transform education standards in northern Uganda. Lango Prime Source

Lira, Uganda | Lira University has unveiled its proposed UGX 46.1 billion Budget Framework for the 2026/2027 financial year, maintaining the same indicative figure as the 2025/2026 approved budget. The budget was presented during a high-level Budget Conference held on 24 October 2025 at the university’s Public Hall, attracting members of the University Council, management, faculty heads, and stakeholders in the education sector. Council Chairperson David Geoffrey Opiokello commended the university management for ensuring a transparent and collaborative budgeting process, saying the conference was crucial in aligning resources to institutional priorities, enhancing accountability, and strengthening financial planning. Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) and University Bursar, CPA Nathan Hagobi, presented the financial performance for the previous financial year and outlined strategic priorities for 2026/2027. He reported that the FY 2024/2025 budget of UGX 39.2 billion was fully released by the Ministry of Finance, with the Government of Uganda contributing UGX 34.8 billion toward wage, non-wage, and development funding. Non-Tax Revenue (NTR) collections stood at UGX 4.8 billion, representing 63.9% of the UGX 7.5 billion target. Key revenue sources included tuition fees, application fees, rental charges, and service-related income. Hagobi noted that the current budget cycle has seen substantial gains in academic expansion, infrastructure development, and digital transformation, supported by government funding and development partners through research grants. Lira University reported progress in the following areas:● Academics: Increased student enrolment due to new programmes in health sciences, ICT, and education; successful examinations and graduation ceremonies.● Digital Transformation: Expanded access to e-learning platforms and the digital library.● Infrastructure: Completion of the main administration block, installation of solar security lighting, improvement of campus roads and drainage systems, and procurement of laboratory, ICT, and medical equipment.● Service Delivery: Strengthened research and innovation, improved staff welfare, enhanced internet connectivity, and sustained community outreach programmes, including clinical services and medical camps. Hagobi stated that the university’s performance demonstrated prudent financial management and laid a solid foundation for efficient implementation of the 2026/2027 budget. The proposed budget seeks to consolidate gains and accelerate growth in line with Uganda’s Vision 2040, the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV), and sector priorities. Key focus areas include:● Strengthening resource mobilisation and revenue diversification● Enhancing financial efficiency, accountability, and value for money● Completion and operationalisation of major capital projects, including the Main Administration Block● Expansion of academic programmes in science, technology, innovation, and health● Strengthening ICT systems for digital transformation● Promoting staff capacity development and welfare● Advancing research, innovation, and community outreach● Integrating climate resilience and sustainability into operations CPA Hagobi appealed to the government to increase both recurrent and development funding to enable completion of lecture theatres, laboratories, staff housing, and other key infrastructure. He also called for strengthened non-tax revenue mobilisation through consultancy services, short courses, and strategic partnerships. He emphasised the adoption of Business Process Re-engineering to enhance administrative efficiency, promote performance-based budgeting, and ensure continuous monitoring and evaluation. “The FY 2026/2027 Budget is not merely a financial document; it is a strategic roadmap for growth, innovation, and accountability,” Hagobi said, stressing the university’s commitment to transparency and value-driven resource use. Heads of Faculties, Directorates, and Departments presented performance reports and priority needs for the coming year, while Council members reiterated the importance of collective responsibility and prudent financial management. Council Vice Chairperson Ms. Nellie Florence Okullo, Audit Committee Chair Dr. Rosie Agoi, Finance Committee Chair Mr. Timothy Jokenne Okee, and Student Welfare Committee Chair Hon. Dickens Odongo were among the senior officials in attendance. Lira University’s 2026/2027 Budget Framework positions the institution for sustained expansion, financial resilience, and global competitiveness. Source