Uncategorized

Dokolo, Uganda | Uganda’s opposition presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, encountered a hostile political climate in Dokolo District on Wednesday, December 3rd, after his campaign rally at Angwecibange Primary School drew fewer than 150 people. The rally, part of his tour of the Lango Subregion, attracted mainly members of his own campaign entourage, with only a handful of local residents attending. Several of those who turned up said they came out of curiosity to see the musician challenging President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power for close to four decades. Addressing supporters, Kyagulanyi accused the district’s security leadership of discouraging residents from attending the event. He singled out the Dokolo Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Barbra Akech, alleging that she and the security teams had “demobilised the community”. He also contrasted the present electoral environment with past regimes, saying previous governments did not deploy security personnel to follow presidential candidates during campaigns. Kyagulanyi used the event to promise revitalised public services, including improvements to schools, health centres and road infrastructure. But his comments about violence during the Obote era, where he said people wearing UPC party T-shirts were targeted, left some listeners unsettled. He later clarified that such acts had been committed by National Resistance Army (NRA) rebels, not by the UPC party. RDC Barbra Akech dismissed the accusations, telling this publication that Kyagulanyi’s team often provokes security officers during rallies, creating fear among residents who worry such confrontations could escalate. She attributed the poor turnout to NUP’s lack of local structures capable of mobilising supporters and said she had personally intervened to secure the primary school for the rally after the School Management Committee initially declined permission. Akech questioned why the candidate was “spoiling her name” despite her assistance, and argued that Kyagulanyi continued to criticise President Museveni while benefiting from the peace and security the government has maintained, citing his overnight stay in Dokolo. She added that Dokolo Town is small and that authorities had been concerned about disruptions, saying the crowds that typically accompany Kyagulanyi could interrupt business and traffic flow. Akech insisted that residents in the district appreciate the stability brought by President Museveni and the unity championed by the late Dokolo Woman MP, Cecilia Barbara Atim Ogwal. She predicted a “massive victory” for Museveni and NRM flagbearers in the January 2026 polls. Residents appeared largely defensive of the RDC, whom many regard as an effective administrator with a strong record in tackling corruption, monitoring government programmes like PDM, and maintaining security. Some feared a recurrence of scenes from previous NUP rallies where clashes with security forces led to tear gas deployments. The Dokolo incident came shortly after Kyagulanyi’s rally in Amolatar District, which lasted about 20 minutes and attracted minimal local support. According to Amolatar RDC Okello Francis Odoki Rwotlonyo, many of those present had been brought in from other areas, and several wore NRM yellow while praising President Museveni. Kyagulanyi is continuing his campaign across northern Uganda ahead of the 2026 elections, though Wednesday’s events highlighted the challenges he faces in consolidating support in parts of the Lango Subregion. Source The post Back-to-Back Setbacks: Dokolo Rejects Bobi Wine With Turnout Below 150, Residents Stand With Museveni and RDC Akech appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Alebtong, Uganda | Uganda’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Rebecca Amuge Otengo, has praised President Yoweri Museveni as a leader whose strategic thinking continues to influence the country’s position internationally. Speaking on Tuesday during a prayer gathering attended by political leaders and election contestants in Alebtong District, Ambassador Otengo said Uganda remains small but powerful because of what she described as the President’s deliberate and calculated approach to leadership. Otengo, who is also Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the African Union, told attendees that influential figures from across the world frequently travel to Addis Ababa seeking meetings with President Museveni to benefit from his strategic counsel. She said many of them leave satisfied with the depth of his analysis. She explained that the President’s leadership style is rooted in patience and tolerance and that he listens more than he speaks. She added that he does not entertain blackmail or discussions that focus on attacking others but instead expects conversations centred on national development and the welfare of the population. The ambassador said God had given Uganda a good leader and noted that part of her responsibility abroad is to facilitate access for international actors who wish to engage with the president. Otengo urged Ugandans to unite behind President Museveni in the forthcoming election, saying he remained popular and, in her view, would be re-elected. She said her perspective was shaped by her experience working in international diplomatic spaces. She also referred to the era of former President Dr. Apollo Milton Obote, saying Ugandans from across the country had supported him and that a similar sense of unity was needed today. Otengo commended Bishop Tom Ibrahim Okello of All Nations for his longstanding support to the people of Alebtong, particularly during the time when communities lived in internally displaced persons’ camps. The ambassador acknowledged that leaders serving communities with limited resources often face challenges and sometimes go beyond their usual duties to meet people’s needs. She encouraged leaders to work together to ensure that government programmes aimed at fighting poverty achieve their intended goals. She also urged both current and incoming leaders to take their oversight roles seriously by monitoring government interventions effectively. In his sermon, Bishop Okello encouraged the community to elect leaders with integrity, those who could represent their constituents well, and demonstrate strong moral values. He advised voters to fulfil their civic responsibility by participating in elections while trusting God to guide the choice of leaders. He told the congregation that it is ultimately God who determines who becomes chairperson, councillor, or member of parliament. The bishop warned that accepting money from politicians in exchange for votes had contributed to the rise of corruption and led many leaders to prioritize personal wealth over service. He noted that in the 1950s, it was voters who often gave money to candidates as a gesture of support, but the trend had since reversed, with politicians now spending heavily to secure votes. He added that leaders without money often felt discouraged from contesting and that the practice had blinded voters and caused them to elect unsuitable leaders. #LujaNewsUganda Source The post Museveni Still Popular and Will Be Re-Elected, Says Ambassador Otengo at Alebtong Prayer Gathering appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Lira, Uganda | Long-standing tensions within Lango’s cultural leadership resurfaced this week after Pala Ocol Awitong, Dickson Ogwang Okul, announced his resignation as Minister of Foreign Affairs under the Lango Cultural Foundation (LCF), prompting a sharp response from Eng. Joseph Odongo Bongonyinge, the Foreign Affairs Minister (Awitim) of the gazetted Lango Cultural Institution (LCI) led by H.H. Eng. Dr. Micheal Moses Odongo Okune. In a letter dated November 25, 2025, Ogwang Okul tendered his resignation to Rt. Hon. Fredrick Ogwal Oyee, whom he recognized as Prime Minister/Acting Won Nyaci of the LCF. He described the decision as “painful but necessary,” citing the death of the late former Won Nyaci Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii and the need for personal reflection. Ogwang Okul indicated that he would now focus on strengthening leadership within his Pala Ocol clan, supporting his family, advancing his diplomatic service in government, and promoting unity and reconciliation across Lango. He appealed for forgiveness among the different cultural camps, urging the community to “release one another from the burdens of the past” during the period of mourning. However, in a rebuttal dated November 26, 2025, Bongonyinge, speaking in his capacity as AWITIM of the LCI, dismissed Ogwang Okul’s resignation letter as “disingenuous” and “self-serving,” accusing him of exploiting the mourning period for personal and political motives. Bongonyinge’s response highlighted several concerns: that the letter was addressed to an “illegitimate office” within LCF, that it ignored recognition of the gazetted leadership of LCI under Eng. Dr. Odongo Okune, and that the use of reconciliation language appeared to serve personal advancement rather than genuine peacebuilding. “The people of Lango need cultural cohesion and constructive development, not gestures that sideline the recognized leadership,” Bongonyinge said, urging Ogwang Okul to formally acknowledge the gazetted LCI authority as a foundation for meaningful reconciliation. The developments come at a sensitive moment as Lango continues to mourn Mzee Yosam Odur Ebii, whose long tenure shaped both unity and division within the region’s cultural leadership. Source The post Odongo Bongonyinge Rejects Ogwang Okul’s ‘Reconciliation’ Letter, Citing Disrespect for Gazetted Won Nyaci appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Katakwi, Uganda | Independent Ngariam County parliamentary candidate Daniel Mulalu has condemned what he calls a deliberate campaign of sabotage after two boda-boda riders were arrested for allegedly vandalising solar security lights he recently installed in Ajesais Parish, Getom Sub-county. The lighting systems, part of a Ugx 285 million project covering 42 trading centres, were set up to enhance security, support night-time business activity, and curb theft across Ngariam County. The suspects, identified as Solomon Adipa (22) of Otiakol Village and James Okiro (25) of Pailakol Village, were apprehended on Tuesday morning after residents reportedly found them with materials believed to have been removed from the solar installation. Their arrest was executed by members of the Katakwi Boda-Boda Association, led by its chairperson Olupot Eria, working jointly with residents from Otiakol and Pailakol villages. Mr Olupot said the boda-boda community would not shield riders who engage in acts that derail local development.“We cannot tolerate individuals who undermine the safety and livelihoods of the very people they serve,” he said. The LC1 Chairperson of Otiakol Village, Mr Joseph Aciiria, said persistent cases of vandalism had increasingly frustrated residents, prompting stronger community vigilance. “These acts drag the community backwards and erode trust in leaders investing in our development,” he said. In a twist that further stirred public outrage, the father of suspect James Okiro admitted that his son had a history of petty theft, insisting that the law should take its course regardless of family efforts to reconcile. Mr Mulalu, who has been rolling out security lights across Ngariam, said the incident was disheartening given the scale of investment and community expectations. “I invested Ugx 9 million in just six poles at Getom Corner and Ugx 285 million to light all 42 trading centres. It is painful to see such critical community infrastructure destroyed,” he said. The candidate also expressed concern over the rising destruction of his campaign materials, revealing that more than half of the 3,500 posters he distributed across the county had been torn or defaced in recent weeks. “This level of sabotage is unacceptable and only heightens tensions during an election period,” he noted. Traders and residents in Getom, including Charles Oonyu, Joseph Ekwe, Rose Amoding, and Oliver Takali, described the vandalism as an attack on community progress. “The lights had already made our trading centres safer and extended business hours. We cannot allow people to destroy what benefits everyone,” Ms Takali said. Katakwi Resident District Commissioner and District Security Committee chairperson Mr Stephen Okure Ilemukorit warned political actors against actions that could instigate violence. “We will not tolerate politically motivated criminality. Anyone involved in acts that threaten peace will be dealt with in accordance with the law,” he said. Police are expected to issue a formal update as investigations continue. #TNN Source The post Mulalu Condemns Sabotage of Ugx 285m Solar Project, 3,500 Campaign Posters Destroyed appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Lira, Uganda | Religious leaders, police officials, and civic educators in northern Uganda have urged calm and restraint ahead of the 2026 general elections, warning that rising political tensions threaten community cohesion in Lango Subregion. The appeal came on Tuesday as the Lira Peace Caravan opened at Lira Main Market, where the Bishop of Lango Diocese, Rt Rev Prof Alfred Olwa, delivered a solemn prayer calling for civility from both security forces and the public. Bishop Olwa urged voters to reject bribery, saying their future carried greater value than any handout offered during campaigns and that leaders who buy their way into office can not be expected to serve the people faithfully. The call for restraint was echoed by the North Kyoga Police spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, who issued a series of stern cautions to the public. He warned motorists against concealing number plates, explaining that the practice is increasingly used by criminals during election periods to avoid identification. Okema also criticised the widespread defacing of campaign posters in Lira City, noting that police had already made several arrests over the practice. He further condemned the assault of a journalist by supporters of a Lira City candidate and said the attackers had been identified and would soon face arrest and prosecution. At the event, Okema reminded residents that the campaign period would conclude in January 2026 and cautioned them against allowing political disagreements to turn into lasting community grudges, arguing that peaceful coexistence would be essential once the elections ended. The Peace Caravan, organised by Uganda IPOD, the Electoral Commission, and NIMD Uganda, is touring the region to promote non-violence and encourage lawful political behaviour. A day earlier, on a QFM radio programme, Alfred Bukenya of the National Consultative Forum explained that the initiative was intended to guide citizens on proper conduct during elections in order to ensure a peaceful process. Bukenya also advised candidates who may feel aggrieved by election outcomes to follow legal procedures. He said that those who believe results have been manipulated should seek redress through the courts only if they possess solid evidence, and he stressed that before pursuing legal action they should first engage key stakeholders for dialogue, as democracy depends on respect for due process. The Peace Caravan’s arrival in Lira comes amid growing concerns about political intolerance, voter inducements, and sporadic violence across parts of the Lango subregion. Source The post Bishop Olwa Leads Peace Push, Tells Lango to Resist Bribery Ahead of 2026 Polls appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Oyam, Uganda | Police in Oyam District are investigating a suspected motorcycle theft ring after an intelligence-led operation on Tuesday led to the recovery of 40 number plates and other items believed to be linked to criminal activity. The operation, conducted on November 25, followed intelligence that a group of individuals had been dismantling and altering number plates of suspected stolen motorcycles at the home of Ayen Calvine in Ajali Opoo Village, Adel Parish, Minakulu Sub-county. According to police, the District Police Commander (DPC) and his team moved to the scene at about 12:50 pm using motor vehicle UP 9680. However, they arrived at around 11:15 pm to find the suspects and motorcycles gone, suggesting that they may have been alerted about the impending operation. A search conducted in the presence of the LC1 chairperson and residents led to the recovery of: 40 motorcycle number plates, buried in a banana plantation. A box of spanners and tools allegedly used for dismantling motorcycles. Three bundles of dried opium. Other exhibits yet to be classified. The items were documented and a search certificate was issued. North Kyoga Region Police spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, said no arrests have been made, but several suspects have been identified and efforts to apprehend them are ongoing. He appealed to the public to cooperate with security agencies by sharing information that may lead to the arrest of the group believed to be behind a series of motorcycle-related thefts in the area. Source The post Police Recover 40 Suspected Stolen Motorcycle Number Plates in Oyam appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Dokolo, Uganda | NRM parliamentary flagbearer Ogwal Joseph Jones has outlined wide-ranging promises on social protection, youth empowerment and service delivery during campaign rallies in Adok Subcounty, amid growing signs of consolidated support ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections. Speaking to residents in Amonolocoo and Te-cuk villages on Tuesday, Ogwal said he would prioritise the welfare of older persons if elected, arguing that all citizens aged 65 and above should benefit from the government’s Social Assistance Grant for Empowerment (SAGE). He told the crowd that no elderly person should be excluded. Ogwal, who has backed youth football programmes for more than a decade, said he intends to expand opportunities for young people through skilling centres and targeted support for income generating activities. He added that land had already been secured for the establishment of an adult learning and vocational training facility in the constituency. On infrastructure, the candidate said his focus would be on ensuring that local and district-level budgets are properly monitored and approved so that road improvements are delivered. He cited the long-delayed Adok Seed Secondary School, saying he had followed up the matter to the Ministry of Education and that only a groundbreaking ceremony remained. Ogwal also pledged to extend electricity coverage across Dokolo North and advocated for a Health Centre III in Adok Subcounty. As part of his human capital plan, he said he hopes to facilitate the training of five doctors and 30 nurses from the area. The NRM flagbearer criticised wealthy individuals whom he accused of “manipulating politics” during election season and disappearing thereafter, leaving communities without services. He said the constituency continues to struggle with poor roads, limited clean water access, and high dropout rates, which have pushed many young people into low-paying security jobs in Kampala and other regions. Beyond economic pledges, Ogwal vowed to protect Lango cultural heritage and announced plans to push for legislation safeguarding customary land, giving cultural institutions powers to issue land ownership permits to local families. Local NRM leaders used the rally to urge residents to vote strictly for party flagbearers, Adok Subcounty NRM Chairperson Okori David said electing non-NRM candidates weakens the area’s ability to lobby for development. Opio Sam, an NRM mobiliser, accused some party officials of seeking money from opposition and independent candidates, warning that such actions risk confusing voters and undermining the party’s chances. Sam Ogwang Amwoma, another party supporter, said there was widespread dissatisfaction with incumbent MP Moses Ogwal Goli, who is contesting as an independent after losing the NRM primaries. He urged residents to rally behind Ogwal Joseph Jones, arguing that President Museveni “needs MPs who are flagbearers” to ensure government programmes reach communities. Adok Subcounty LCIII Chairperson Ogwali Rubby read out community demands, including electricity expansion and support for women and youth groups. He endorsed Ogwal as the leader best placed to deliver on these priorities. The rallies drew large crowds, with many residents publicly declaring their intention to vote for Ogwal in the January 2026 elections. Local leaders described the event as evidence of shifting political momentum in Dokolo North ahead of what is expected to be a competitive parliamentary race. Source The post Ogwal Joseph Jones Gains Ground in Dokolo North with Bold Agenda and Strong NRM Support as Voters Reject Goli’s Independent Bid appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Lira, Uganda | A cloud of mystery hangs over Camp Swahili in Lira City East Division after a Kenyan produce dealer was on Tuesday found dead inside his locked room, sparking concern and speculation among residents. The deceased, identified as Jenga Sam, about 50, had lived in the area for years and was known among traders for his quiet lifestyle and regular involvement in the produce business. Residents say they were shocked when police arrived in the usually calm neighbourhood after a report from Wamari Issa, a fellow Kenyan national who also resides in the same cell. Issa told police he became alarmed when he failed to see Jenga in the morning as usual. Regional Police Spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema said the circumstances surrounding the discovery have raised several questions. “The body was seen through the window lying on the bed facing the roof, with the legs slanting toward the floor,” he said. What has particularly puzzled investigators is that the door was locked from the inside, leaving no immediate signs of a struggle or forced entry. Police had to break the door to access the room. Inside, detectives found a black backpack, clothes scattered on the bed, and an assortment of drugs on a table—items police have since taken as exhibits, along with the deceased’s phone. The sudden death has unsettled many in the neighbourhood, with some residents wondering whether Jenga may have been ill, while others whisper about the possibility of poisoning or self-harm—speculation the police have urged the public to avoid until investigations are complete. The body was taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for a postmortem to determine the cause of death, while detectives await a statement from the manager of the premises, who is yet to come forward. For now, authorities are piecing together the trader’s final hours, hoping the ongoing investigation will provide clarity and ease community concerns. Source The post Lira Community Gripped by Mystery After Kenyan Trader Found Dead in Locked Room appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Soroti, Uganda | Housing Finance Bank has today opened a new branch in Soroti, expanding its footprint in Eastern Uganda and strengthening efforts to improve access to financial services in the Teso Sub-region. The launch, presided over by Vice President Jessica Alupo, drew leaders, business owners, farmers, and residents who welcomed the Bank’s entry as a timely boost to the region’s growing economic activity. Speaking at the ceremony, Alupo said the establishment of the Soroti branch reflects the government’s broader commitment to deepening financial inclusion and bringing essential services closer to communities. “This is a strategic intervention that will go a long way in improving and enhancing the accessibility of financial services in this Teso Sub-region,” she said. “I call upon all our people to take advantage of the products and services available here to improve their livelihoods.” Alupo noted that Uganda’s journey toward achieving its 2030 development targets requires strong collaboration between government and financial institutions. “As we approach 2030, we must deepen stakeholder engagement. The banking sector remains one of the most consequential partners in that journey,” she said. “Banks are not only lenders—they are enablers of dignity. They help citizens dream responsibly and build sustainably.” Highlighting the economic profile of the region, Alupo underscored that agriculture remains the backbone of Teso’s economy, with citrus, grain, livestock, fisheries, and poultry sustaining most households. She said Soroti is emerging as a strategic agro-industrial hub, supported by government infrastructure and growing private-sector investment. “This branch is an economic rebalancing tool. It brings services closer to the people, reduces exclusion, and amplifies regional momentum,” she added. The Vice President welcomed Housing Finance Bank’s decision to expand to Soroti and encouraged the institution to continue innovating and serving communities with integrity. “Your presence here shows that banking is no longer just a service—it is a driver of socio-economic change,” she said. “Maintain this path. Continue investing in communities and supporting long-term development.” She further urged the Bank to consider opening another branch in Katakwi to expand access to rural populations. Housing Finance Bank Managing Director Michael Mugabi said the Soroti branch is tailored to serve the region’s rapidly expanding economic ecosystem. “Our goal is simple—empower individuals and businesses with the financial tools they need to grow,” Mugabi said. “This branch brings together convenience, innovation, and customer-focused solutions tailored to the realities of this region.” He added that the bank is prioritizing farmers, SMEs, and youth enterprises, which he described as key drivers of Teso’s economic transformation. The branch will offer savings and current accounts, personal and business loans, mortgages, investment products, and advisory services. Mugabi emphasized that digital banking platforms will enhance convenience and make transactions easier for customers across the region. The Soroti branch brings Housing Finance Bank’s national network to 23 branches, reinforcing its continued expansion into high-growth regions. Residents and business owners at the launch expressed optimism that the new branch will attract more investment, reduce travel costs for banking services, and support enterprise development. Source The post Housing Finance Bank Steps Into Soroti With Focus on Regional Economic Transformation appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Kaberamaido, Uganda | The State Minister for Northern Uganda, Dr. Kenneth Omona has urged residents to avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and harmful drugs, warning that such habits can seriously affect mental health and contribute to mental disorders. Dr. Omona made the remarks on Saturday evening during the burial ceremony of the late Florence Erayu Ingweno, a former teacher at Township Primary School, held at Gwetom “B” in Kaberamido District. He cautioned people in Northern and Eastern Uganda to remain vigilant against overindulgence in alcohol and toxic substances, stressing that early medical attention can prevent serious complications. The minister also encouraged residents to seek medical advice promptly to safeguard their health. Meanwhile, Vicar General of Soroti Catholic Diocese, Rev. Fr. Robert Ecogu appealed to educated women to treat their husbands with understanding, emphasizing the importance of harmony in families. Rev. Fr. Ecogu also urged political leaders to actively participate in church activities and dedicate their lives to God to receive blessings from Christ. Source The post Dr. Omona Warns Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse as Soroti Clergy Urge Educated Women to Respect Husbands appeared first on Dokolo Post.