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Lira, Uganda | Journalists in the Lango subregion have been assured of protection during election coverage and beyond, as over 40 media practitioners gathered to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists at Good News Hotel in Lira City on Friday 31st October. Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Stephen Odongo, a former media professional, opened the event by pledging “maximum protection” for journalists operating in Lango. He emphasized the critical role of the press as the “fourth arm of government” and urged media practitioners to maintain fairness, accuracy, and impartiality in reporting, particularly with the 2026 elections approaching. The event, marking the 11th commemoration of the international day, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by journalists and the collective responsibility to end impunity. Akwam Emmy Milton, Managing Editor of TND News Online, called for greater support for Lango media houses, appealing to organizations such as the African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) and UNESCO to empower local journalism. Human rights advocate Newton Noble Odongo highlighted the societal benefits of protecting journalists, noting that safeguarding the press contributes to societal prosperity and warning that silencing media often correlates with rising injustice. He encouraged journalists to act responsibly while showing courage and solidarity. High Court advocate Winnie Anyango emphasized the importance of enforcing laws designed to protect journalists, particularly women, and said she would personally intervene if any female journalist in Lira faced assault. She also encouraged media personnel to report incidents with proper evidence to address impunity effectively. Acipa Grace Doreen, Executive Director of the Lango Women Media Association (LWMA), discussed the growing challenges of harassment and the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in reporting. She advocated for collaboration among journalists, raising awareness about digital security and defending media rights both online and offline. Several journalists shared personal experiences of threats, Ambrose Okwanga of Unity FM recounted receiving threatening phone calls during assignments and highlighted the inadequate remuneration faced by journalists in upcountry areas. URN Lango Bureau Chief Amony Immaculate advised colleagues to prioritize personal safety during election reporting, stressing that no story is worth risking one’s life. Vision Group journalist Ekol Ekol Joseph suggested forming a digital security committee to improve communication and safety among journalists. In her closing remarks on behalf of UNESCO, Pollin Achola reinforced that journalism is not a crime and that truth-telling should never be punished. She pointed out that more than 70% of female journalists globally experience harassment, both online and offline, and urged governments, media houses, and citizens to unite in defending press freedom and ending impunity. The event served as both a reminder of the risks journalists face and a call to action for media practitioners, authorities, and civil society to safeguard the integrity and safety of the press in Uganda. Tayari News Uganda Source

Soroti, Uganda | Independent parliamentary candidate Otuko Augustine has accused political rivals of orchestrating acts of intimidation and sabotage aimed at frustrating independent candidates in Ngariam County, Katakwi District, ahead of President Yoweri Museveni’s campaign tour of the area. Speaking to the press in Soroti City on Friday, Otuko claimed that a numberless drone vehicle carrying armed men in civilian clothes was seen in Katakwi Town late Thursday night, allegedly defacing and removing posters belonging to independent candidates. He said the operation appeared to be well-coordinated and intended to suppress the visibility of certain candidates before the President’s arrival. According to Otuko, the attackers mainly targeted his campaign materials and those of Dan Mulalu, another independent aspirant. He said residents alerted him to the incident around midnight, prompting him to inform the District Police Commander and the District Security Officer, though the suspects managed to escape before security could intervene. He described the attack as a deliberate act of political intimidation, saying it portrays fear among certain camps that feel threatened by the growing support for independent candidates. Otuko said the involvement of individuals linked to senior government officials, if proven true, would amount to abuse of power and an erosion of democratic values. Otuko called for an immediate investigation into the incident and urged both the Electoral Commission and security agencies to guarantee equal protection for all candidates regardless of party affiliation. He also encouraged his supporters to remain calm and committed to peaceful campaigns despite the provocation. “…We are not at war; we are competing for leadership through votes. Whoever believes in the people should face them fairly, not through intimidation or destruction of others’ posters,..” Otuko said. He added that he will be lodging a formal complaint with police and is ready to pursue the matter legally to ensure accountability. Source

Otuke, Uganda | Otuke District has carved out a unique political identity in Uganda, consistently electing a new Woman Member of Parliament every five years since its establishment. The trend, which began with the district’s creation in 2010, reflects voters’ preference for periodic change and fresh leadership. Formed on 17 July 2010 after being carved out of Lira District, Otuke has never re-elected an incumbent Woman MP, a record unmatched by any other district in the Lango Subregion. The district’s first Woman MP, Annet Nyakecho, was elected on the NRM ticket in 2011. A businesswoman originally from Tororo who married into Otuke, she served one term before moving on to represent Tororo North County in the subsequent Parliament. She was succeeded by Silvia Akello (2016–2021), who also served a single term before being defeated in the 2021 polls. The current MP, Susan Jolly Abeja (2021–present), continues the district’s pattern of one-term representation. She is again on the NRM ticket for the upcoming 2026 general election, where she faces stiff competition from four other contenders. The five candidates nominated for the Woman MP race include Grace Abote (UPC), Susan Jolly Abeja (NRM – Incumbent), Akullo Rose Mary (Independent), Adur Norah (Independent), and Ogwang Paska (DP). Across Otuke, growing grassroots support appears to be rallying behind UPC candidate Grace Abote, whose community-based initiatives have gained visibility in several sub-counties. Residents from different parts of the district said they believe Abote represents the kind of leadership the community needs. In Okwang Subcounty, Tonny Ogwang noted that of the three previous MPs, no UPC candidate had ever won, but he believed Abote stood out as the most capable contender in this election. In Orum Subcounty, Odongo James observed that Abote had repaired several boreholes across Otuke, including in Okwang Opejal and Got-Ojwang villages, describing her as a leader who addresses community needs through practical action. Other supporters such as Onguu Jasper (Olilim), Odany Robert (Adwari), and Apar Jasper (Ogor) also commended Abote for her development initiatives. They pointed to her role in road rehabilitation works at Wii Dam in Ogwete Subcounty, Anam Okoko Kongo Bridge, and Odite Bridge in Otuke Town Council. They further cited her continued support to churches and women’s groups across the district as evidence of her commitment to inclusive development. With the 2026 elections on the horizon, Otuke voters are at another turning point, to continue their habit of replacing Woman MPs every term or break tradition by re-electing the incumbent. Source

Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Uganda’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, Ambassador Doreen Ruth Amule, has urged countries to reform their education systems to equip learners with practical, digital, and entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in the 21st century. Speaking at the High-Level Ministerial Segment Meeting of the UNESCO 43rd General Conference held on October 31, 2025, in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, Ambassador Amule said the world is undergoing rapid transformation, requiring a shift in how education prepares learners for modern challenges. She noted that traditional learning models centered on literacy and numeracy alone can no longer meet the needs of a dynamic global economy. According to Amule, nations must now prioritize competencies such as creativity, critical thinking, environmental stewardship, and technological literacy to empower future generations. Amule highlighted Uganda’s ongoing education reforms aimed at integrating problem-solving and innovation into the curriculum at all levels. She said the government is aligning educational outcomes with the demands of the labor market to create a generation of skilled and adaptable learners. She pointed out that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) remains central to Uganda’s approach, bridging the gap between education and employment by equipping learners with hands-on skills directly applicable to industry and business sectors. Addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Amule noted that it exposed digital inequalities across communities. She said Uganda is working to address this through initiatives that promote digital literacy and expand access to technology and e-learning platforms. The Ambassador also emphasized that teachers play a vital role in shaping the future of education, calling for continuous professional development to ensure they are equipped to teach effectively in an ever-changing world. In her closing remarks, Amule called on all UNESCO member states to collaborate in developing inclusive, equitable, and resilient education systems capable of addressing global challenges and driving sustainable growth. The UNESCO 43rd General Conference continues to deliberate on ways to transform education globally and ensure that learning remains relevant and accessible for future generations. Source

Lira, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to preside over Lira University’s 7th Graduation Ceremony on 21st November 2025, where 448 graduands will receive their degree transcripts and certificates. In a letter signed by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng, the university management officially invited the President to grace the event. Prof. Ogwal Okeng told the University Council on 31st October 2025 that preparations are in high gear and that invitation letters have already been dispatched to other distinguished guests. Prof. Ogwal Okeng emphasized that as a public university, Lira University is committed to providing access to quality higher education, professional training, research, and innovations aimed at transforming communities. He added that reports indicate Lira University graduates offer effective and efficient service delivery in their workplaces. Of the 448 graduands, 288 are male and 160 female, representing the faculties of Education, Medicine, Nursing and Midwifery, Management Sciences, and Computing and Information Sciences. Chairperson of the University Council, David Geoffrey Opiokello, commended the management and staff for their effectiveness in implementing planned activities and ensuring the university’s steady growth despite challenges. He noted that the council appreciates the management’s efforts to put things right and ensure the smooth execution of planned programs. Unlike many other universities, Lira University hands over academic documents-transcripts and certificates-on the day of graduation, allowing graduands to immediately pursue job opportunities. The university upholds core values of professionalism, efficiency, accountability, teamwork, gender responsiveness, and sensitivity to the elderly and people with disabilities, reflecting its commitment to excellence in education and community service. Source

Kalaki, Uganda | The National Resistance Movement (NRM) is steadily consolidating support in Eastern Uganda ahead of the 2026 general elections, according to David Calvin Echodu, the party’s Vice Chairperson for the region. Speaking to supporters at Kalaki Secondary School ahead of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s rally, Echodu said the party has been gaining ground over the past three election cycles and expressed confidence that the NRM will secure an even bigger share of the votes this time. “…Eastern Uganda has been a bedrock for the NRM, and with mobilization underway, excitement is high and we are moving in the right direction…,” he stated. Echodu also called for government recognition and support for the Arrow Boys, the local militia that bravely defended communities against LRA rebels in 2003. He further assured residents that the Katine–Kalaki–Kaberamaido–Ochero road will soon be upgraded, with plans already in place. The Vice Chairperson, who also sits on the NRM Central Executive Committee, emphasized that he is actively coordinating efforts to guarantee both development and a landslide victory for President Museveni in Eastern Uganda. Source

Kaberamido, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Friday, October 31, 2025, held his second campaign rally in the Teso Subregion, drawing thousands of supporters to Ochero Town Council in Kaberamaido District. The rally, part of his nationwide mobilization tour, focused on consolidating the NRM’s achievements and unveiling new infrastructure and service delivery plans for the region. In his remarks, David Calvin Echodu, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, assured the President that the people of Teso and Kumam are ready to protect and sustain the gains the NRM government has delivered in the region. The Second National Vice Chairperson of NRM and Speaker of Parliament, Annet Anita Among, praised President Museveni as the most capable and visionary candidate among those contesting for the presidency. She commended the First Lady and Minister for Education and Sports, Janet Kataaha Museveni, for her continued presence and support during the President’s rallies. Among also appreciated the President for allocating UGX 1 billion to each district for road maintenance, noting that Kaberamaido has already maintained over 200 kilometers of roads. She further announced that the Buyende–Kagwara–Kaberamaido (BKK) ferry would be officially launched in December 2025 to boost connectivity across the region. The First Lady, Mama Janet Museveni, lauded the residents of Kaberamaido for their massive turnout and commended them for embracing peace and development. She urged voters to continue supporting President Museveni and all NRM flag bearers, emphasizing the government’s consistent efforts to restore and preserve peace in the region. In his address, President Museveni, who also serves as the NRM National Chairman, praised Echodu for his tireless mobilization work in Eastern Uganda. He reminded the crowd that the NRM’s legacy spans over 65 years, built on seven key pillars, with peace, development, and social transformation among the most vital. The President highlighted the restoration of peace in Teso, recalling the period of insurgency when many residents were displaced and schools such as Lwala Girls Secondary School were attacked by rebels. He noted that the NRM government has since restored stability and spurred growth through investments in roads, electricity, telecommunication, water, and education. Museveni announced that the Tororo–Soroti–Dokolo–Lira–Kamdini road rehabilitation is ongoing, while funds for the 73-kilometer Ochero–Katine road have already been secured. He said government will also tarmac the Amolatar–Namasale and Amolatar–Dokolo roads to enhance connectivity across the region. On health, the President pledged to upgrade Kaburepoli and Murem Health Centre IIs to Health Centre IIIs and construct a new Health Centre III in Oriamo Sub-county and in Kaberamaido Sub-county to improve access to quality health services. Addressing education, Museveni revealed that Kaberamaido District currently has 45 government primary schools and six secondary schools, adding that government plans to align facilities with the policy of having one primary school per parish and one secondary school per sub-county. Regarding cattle compensation, the President acknowledged the long-standing grievances in Teso, Lango, and Acholi regions and said government has already allocated UGX 159 billion for payments. He added that consultations are ongoing with local leaders to ensure that each affected household receives five cows as compensation. On water supply, Museveni assured residents that government will extend piped water to Awelu Village, Ochero Town Council, Cwagere, and 12 other villages that still lack access to safe water sources. The President concluded by urging residents to remain united, safeguard the peace achieved, and rally behind the NRM government as it continues to deliver socio-economic transformation across Uganda. Source

Lira, Uganda | The Paramount Chief of Lango, His Royal Highness Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, has praised the Government of Uganda under President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for financing the construction of the John Akii Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira District, describing it as a historic investment that will transform sports and development in the Lango subregion. Odongo Okune made the remarks on Thursday, 30 October 2025, during an inspection of the ongoing construction works at the stadium site. He was accompanied by officials from the National Council of Sports (NCS) and a number of Lango clan leaders. The Paramount Chief expressed his appreciation to the government for honouring Uganda’s Olympic gold medallist, John Akii Bua, by naming the new facility after him. He noted that the Akii Bua Stadium represented not only a sporting facility but also a symbol of national pride and unity. Odongo further stressed the need for the Lango community to maintain a close working relationship with the central government in order to attract more development projects to the region. He observed that other regions that have collaborated closely with the government had achieved significant progress and that Lango should pursue a similar path. In his address, the Paramount Chief also called on young footballers and athletes from Lango to prepare to utilize the stadium once completed. He said the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which Uganda will co-host, would provide an opportunity for the youth to develop their talents and honour Akii Bua’s legacy through sporting excellence. According to Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel, Secretary General of the National Council of Sports, construction of the stadium has reached 32% completion, with steady progress being made despite occasional setbacks caused by heavy rainfall. The project, valued at UGX 470 billion, is being undertaken by SAMCO Construction Company Limited. Ogwel stated that all the necessary funds for the project had already been secured by the government, ensuring that construction would proceed without financial delays. He added that the facility, designed to accommodate 20,000 spectators, would host both indoor and outdoor events and was expected to be completed before the AFCON 2027 tournament. He further indicated that plans were underway to erect a memorial in honour of John Akii Bua, and that the stadium would be inaugurated by President Museveni together with the Lango Paramount Chief before being officially opened for public use. The project has provided employment to 1,093 workers, of whom about 80% are natives of Lango, giving local residents both job opportunities and technical skills development. During the same visit, Moses Anyii Omara, a board member of the National Council of Sports, urged the Paramount Chief to continue engaging local leaders and residents to resolve any land-related issues around the project peacefully. He also encouraged community support for the proposed construction of an airport near the stadium, noting that it would promote tourism, sports, and economic growth in the Lango sub-region. The inspection marked a major milestone in Lango’s preparation for hosting part of the AFCON 2027 games. Once completed, the John Akii Bua Olympic Stadium is expected to stand as a lasting tribute to Uganda’s first Olympic gold medallist and a catalyst for socio-economic transformation in northern Uganda. Source

Kapelebyong, Uganda | Th President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has ordered investigations into the alleged misuse of road maintenance funds by district officials, emphasizing that corruption should not obstruct development in Teso. Speaking at his first campaign rally on the 30th October, 2025 in the sub-region, held at St. Francis Acumet Playground in Kapelebyong, Museveni, accompanied by Mama Janet Museveni, said the NRM government allocates Shs 1 billion to every district annually for road maintenance, but some officials fail to use the money properly, leaving roads impassable. He warned that those found mismanaging funds would be held accountable, stressing that good roads are critical for economic activity and social services. The President highlighted the achievements of the NRM government in restoring peace and stability in Teso, recalling the turbulent years when cattle rustlers, rebels, and internal displacement plagued the region. He noted that areas like Achowa were once abandoned by displaced persons, but since 2007, government efforts have brought lasting peace, disarmed cattle rustlers, and secured Karamoja. Museveni said that peace is now permanent and forms the foundation for all development in the region. Museveni detailed infrastructure progress, including the tarmacking of Soroti–Moroto, Soroti–Katine, Dokolo–Lira–Kamdini, and Mbale–Tirinyi–Kumi roads, and announced plans to upgrade the Soroti–Amuria–Obalanga–Achanpi–Otuke–Abim road. He said these projects are crucial for improving connectivity, trade, and access to social services. On education, the President said Teso has made notable strides. He explained that in the past, even prominent schools like Teso College, Sir Samuel Baker, and Mwiri only offered O’Level education. Today, Kapelebyong alone has ten secondary schools, and the government plans to ensure one primary school per parish and one secondary school per sub-county, while also promoting free education to reduce school dropouts. Addressing past conflicts, Museveni acknowledged that Teso, Lango, and Acholi were heavily affected by war, and government had allocated Shs 159 billion for cattle compensation. He admitted that implementation challenges have occurred and said he is working with regional leaders to develop a fair compensation mechanism, ensuring that each household receives five cows. The President also defended his appointment of several Itesots to government positions, saying they were selected based on merit and competence, not regional favoritism. Local leaders, led by Akorikin Francis, the NRM flagbearer for Kapelebyong County, thanked the President for his continued support to the region. They called for the upgrade of Kapelebyong Health Centre IV to a district hospital, the creation of Achowa County, and more appointments of local leaders to senior government positions such as ministers and RDCs. The leaders pledged that Kapelebyong would deliver 95% of the votes to President Museveni in the 2026 elections. Kapelebyong was the first stop on Museveni’s Teso campaign trail, which will continue in Kalaki and Kaberamaido districts as the President mobilizes support ahead of the 2026 general elections. Source

Lira, Uganda | A group of boda-boda riders and youth who had earlier defected from the camp of Health Minister and Lira City Woman MP, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, to that of Betty Amongi Akena, have officially returned to the National Resistance Movement (NRM), apologising to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Dr. Aceng and the people of Lango for their actions. The group, led by Okori Moses, Chairperson of the Lira City Boda-Boda Riders Association, said the defection was caused by frustration and misinformation. He explained that some riders had expressed disappointment over not receiving fuel facilitation during Dr. Aceng’s nomination day, which they interpreted as neglect. Okori confirmed that out of the 15 riders who defected, 10 had now rejoined NRM and were warmly received. He noted that his colleagues had acted out of anger and misinformation but had since realised that Dr. Aceng’s leadership was genuine and development-oriented, prompting their return. Several of the returning members said they were relieved to rejoin the NRM camp after being wrongly perceived as bad elements in the community. They clarified that they did not participate in the incident where yellow shirts bearing the images of President Museveni and Dr. Aceng were stepped on, claiming instead that hired drunkards were responsible for the act. One of the returnees, Isaac Ocen, said they were deceived by a man identified as Okello Jacob to join the UPC camp. He said the group had come to appreciate NRM’s record in maintaining peace, ensuring security, and driving development in Uganda. Ocen noted that they had decided to return to the ruling party because they now understood its values and leadership vision. He further urged the youth to rally behind Dr. Aceng in her 2026 re-election bid, citing her efforts in improving services at Lira Regional Referral Hospital and implementing several community projects. Ocen and other returnees demonstrated their renewed allegiance by removing red campaign shirts associated with Amongi’s camp and putting on NRM yellow shirts. Aziz Muhammad, Chairperson of United Hawkers Association of Lira City, distanced his group from the earlier defection, saying the association had consistently supported NRM. He explained that the hawkers were interested in leaders who addressed their welfare needs and affirmed that his team would continue supporting Dr. Aceng and President Museveni. On the other hand, Okello Jacob, a boda-boda rider and teacher, said their earlier decision to support Amongi was influenced by unaddressed concerns within Dr. Aceng’s camp. He explained that they did not oppose Dr. Aceng personally but only sought attention for their needs and challenges. Welcoming the returnees, Jacob Ocen, the NRM Publicity Secretary for Lira City, commended them for realising the truth and returning to the ruling party. He said they had been misled by individuals who lacked a genuine development agenda for Lira City. Ocen also criticised the recent acts of stepping on NRM campaign shirts, describing them as disrespectful and politically immature. He said Dr. Aceng understands the challenges facing the people of Lira City and is committed to addressing them. He added that NRM stands for unity and warns the youth against being used by selfish politicians with no vision for the city. The reconciliation meeting concluded with renewed pledges of loyalty from both the boda-boda and hawkers’ associations, who vowed to mobilise support for Dr. Aceng’s 2026 re-election campaign and President Museveni’s continued leadership. Source