Uncategorized

Lira, Uganda | The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has staged a strong political comeback in Lira City, sweeping the division mayoral races in a development that signals a shifting political tide in the Lango subregion following the 2026 Local Government Council elections. In a tightly contested race in Lira City West Division, UPC’s Emmanuel Ebong Opeto was declared winner after polling 7,117 votes, edging out NRM’s George Rashid Opio, who garnered 6,494 votes. The UPC momentum was even more pronounced in Lira City East Division, where Odongo Denis Peter secured a convincing victory with 10,053 votes, defeating NRM’s Odongo Emmy Joe, who polled 8,079 votes. The results were announced by the Returning Officer, Ipeto Aggrey James, at Lira City Hall in the evening hours of Tuesday. Other contenders in the Lira East race trailed far behind, with Omach David polling 899 votes, Okwee George 788, Awany James Johakim 435, Ocip Moses 399, Ongia Daniel 202, Odom Denish 171, and Acar George 155. The twin UPC victories mean the party will control both Lira City East and West Division mayoral seats, a development political observers say reflects growing urban support for the opposition party in Lira City. The division mayors will serve alongside Lira City Mayor Sam Atul, who retained his seat on January 23, 2026, after polling 16,905 votes, ahead of Mike Ogwang Olwa Veve, who garnered 11,752 votes. While UPC made significant inroads in Lira City, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) tightened its grip on Soroti City, winning both division mayoral seats. In Soroti City East Division, NRM’s Latif Abdul Wali cruised to a landslide victory with 11,003 votes, defeating six challengers. Solomon Epuru (NUP) polled 217 votes, Wilfred Onyango (IND) 424 votes, and Elias Ewacu (DF) garnered 74 votes. NRM also triumphed in Soroti City West Division, where John Enomu emerged winner with 7,899 votes. He defeated Isaac Asaku (FDC), who polled 3,874 votes, Samuel Eyobu (IND) with 1,443 votes, and Peter Patrick Emaru (UPC) who garnered 363 votes. The contrasting outcomes in Lira and Soroti highlight evolving political dynamics in eastern and northern urban centres, with UPC asserting dominance in Lira City divisions as NRM maintains control of Soroti City. Source The post Lira City Divisions Fall to UPC as Ebong Opeto, Denis Peter Beat Rashid Opio, Emmy Joe appeared first on Dokolo Post.

By Fred Baluku, Kasese District Uganda’s 2026 elections will be remembered as a defining moment in the nation’s democratic journey. Across the country, voters demonstrated their will, unity, and commitment to progress, resulting in a decisive victory for the National Resistance Movement (NRM). But behind this success were unsung heroes, the Assistant Resident District Commissioners (ARDCs) and Assistant Resident City Commissioners (ARCCs), whose dedication, leadership, and grassroots engagement turned opposition strongholds into NRM victories. In April 2024, President Yoweri Museveni and the Office of the President made a bold move, the appointment of Assistant RDCs and ARCCs to reinforce the capacity of RDCs and RCCs. The decision, aimed at strengthening leadership at the grassroots, was met with some skepticism. However, the assistants proved their worth by enhancing voter education, engaging communities, and ensuring that citizens’ voices were heard—regardless of political affiliation. From Opposition Strongholds to NRM Wins The impact of Assistant RDCs and ARCCs was felt nationwide:︎ Kasese: Once a stronghold of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Kasese recorded more than 80% of votes for NRM across all positions. ︎ Lira City: Traditionally under the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), Lira City saw a dramatic swing to NRM, with the party securing over 80% of votes. ︎ Kampala: In the capital, long dominated by the National Unity Platform (NUP), assistants helped bridge the gap between government and residents, resulting in unprecedented NRM support. From Karamoja to Buganda, Acholi to West Nile, assistants’ efforts built trust, fostered dialogue, and strengthened connections between government and communities. Experts say the success of Assistant RDCs and ARCCs was not just in political mobilization but in mentorship and collaborative leadership. Working closely with RDCs and RCCs, assistants trained local leaders to become credible messengers of NRM policies, creating a sense of ownership and trust among communities. This approach improved voter turnout, encouraged citizen engagement, and ensured government programs were implemented effectively and transparently. The 2026 elections demonstrate the power of strategic leadership and grassroots engagement. By empowering Assistant RDCs and ARCCs, the President ensured that leadership extended beyond titles to real, tangible impact on communities. Political analysts note that this model of mentorship, collaboration, and community engagement could serve as a blueprint for future elections and local governance in Uganda. Assistant RDCs and ARCCs have proven to be pivotal in Uganda’s democratic process. Their commitment, teamwork, and focus on the people’s needs helped secure a decisive victory for NRM, reshaped opposition territories, and strengthened local governance. As Uganda moves forward, the role of these unsung heroes will be remembered as a key pillar in the country’s political and democratic development. Source The post NRM’s 2026 Election Triumph: The Unsung Role of Assistant RDCs and ARCCs appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Lira, Uganda | Former Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) parliamentary aspirant for Lira City East Division James Ocen, also known as Ocen Agipi, has announced a series of measures to support residents as a way of thanking the community for their support during the recent elections. Speaking on Unity FM in Lira on Wednesday, Ocen said the initiatives were motivated by appreciation for voters who backed him, and a desire to foster unity after a closely contested race. “I want to give back to my people, regardless of the election result,” he said. Ocen said tuition fees at Premier Progressive School have been reduced from Shs650,000 to Shs470,000 per term, while entrance fees at Faith Secondary School have been lowered from Shs800,000 to Shs750,000. The fees will cover meals and school uniforms, and newly admitted students will receive mattresses. He also revealed that medical services at his Gift Life Medical Centre will be offered at subsidised rates, describing it as a gesture of gratitude to the community. In the parliamentary race, National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Denis Alyela Omodi narrowly defeated Ocen, polling 17,495 votes to Ocen’s 17,319, according to Electoral Commission results. Ocen called on residents to set aside political differences and work together for the development of Lira City East Division, emphasizing that elections should not divide communities. Alyela succeeds Jimmy James Michael Akena Obote of the UPC as Member of Parliament for the division. Source The post Former Lira East Division MP Aspirant Ocen Agipi Rewards Supporters With Reduced School Fees, Subsidised Healthcare After Election Loss appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Alebtong, Uganda | Fred Jalameso of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has been declared the elected Member of Parliament for Ajuri County Constituency in Alebtong District following the conclusion of a partial re-run ordered by the Electoral Commission (EC). According to the EC Return Form (RF), Jalameso obtained 16,336 votes, defeating the incumbent Denis Hamson Obua of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), who polled 15,568 votes. Other candidates included Emmanuel Ongom Okwel of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) with 2,874 votes, Jasper Molo (Independent) with 1,585 votes, and Stephen Omara (Independent) who garnered 519 votes. The election recorded 36,882 valid votes, 1,164 rejected ballot papers, and 38,046 total ballots counted, with 99 spoilt ballots. The results were declared on Tuesday at 7:53pm at Alebtong District Council Hall by the District Returning Officer, Olobo Michael. The Ajuri County parliamentary race was among the most closely contested in the January 15, 2026, general elections. Preliminary results from 160 of the 178 polling stations initially showed Jalameso in the lead with 14,321 votes (44.5%) against Obua’s 12,963 votes (40.25%). However, Jalameso petitioned the Electoral Commission, alleging irregularities and discrepancies in results from Awei Subcounty. Following investigations and a recount, the EC found inconsistencies and, on January 18, 2026, cancelled results from 18 polling stations, ordering a fresh poll in those areas. Voting in the affected polling stations was conducted on January 27, 2026, after which the EC compiled the final tally and declared Jalameso winner. Obua, who is also the Government Chief Whip, had entered the general election after being unopposed in the NRM primaries. Jalameso’s victory hands the Uganda People’s Congress a parliamentary seat in Alebtong District, ending Obua’s tenure as Ajuri County legislator. Source The post UPC’s Fred Jalameso Defeats NRM’s Obua in Ajuri County After EC Re-run appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Apac, Uganda | Police in Apac District arrested the incumbent mayor, Patrick Ongom Eyul, and an independent mayoral aspirant, Awany Andrew, over separate incidents of alleged incitement and illegal campaigning during the mayoral and councillor elections held on Tuesday. According to police, the incidents occurred within Apac Municipality on January 27, prompting swift intervention by security agencies to prevent disruption of the electoral process. Police said they received intelligence at about 7am that a group of voters had gathered at Judins Hotel in Apac Town, raising suspicion among members of the public that the individuals had been ferried in from neighbouring sub-counties to influence the election outcome. Further allegations indicated that Ongom, who was contesting on the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) ticket, had mobilised people to confront the group and disrupt order at the hotel. However, police investigations established that the individuals were duly registered voters in Apac Municipality. Although some were currently residing outside the municipality, records from the Electoral Commission voter register update exercise showed they had lawfully transferred their voting location to Apac. “The Returning Officer clarified that any voter whose name appears on the official register is legally entitled to vote at their registered polling station, regardless of their current place of residence,” police said in a statement. Mr Ongom was arrested on allegations of inciting violence and transferred to Lira Regional Police Headquarters for further management. The case was registered under Apac SD Ref: 24/27/01/2026. Police said the arrest was a preventive measure aimed at averting possible clashes and ensuring voter safety. In a separate incident, police said that at about 9:30am, Awany Andrew appeared on Devine FM radio and allegedly engaged in political campaigning while voting was ongoing, an act prohibited under electoral laws. Awany was arrested and the matter recorded under Apac SD Ref: 25/27/01/2026. He was briefly detained at Apac Central Police Station before being released on police bond pending further investigations. Police also revealed that intelligence reports indicated that individuals allegedly aligned to Ongom had been deployed at several polling stations to block voters perceived to be non-residents, despite their names appearing on the voters’ register. Officers intervened to ensure all eligible voters exercised their constitutional right without intimidation. Following the police interventions, voting proceeded peacefully across Apac Municipality. “The political and security situation in Apac Town remains calm. Police continue to monitor developments closely and urge all stakeholders to strictly observe electoral laws and maintain peace,” said North Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema. Source The post Police Arrest Apac Mayor, Independent Aspirant Over Election Day Offences appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Otuke, Uganda | Julius Acon Bua, the incumbent Member of Parliament (MP) for Otuke East who also doubles as the chairman NRM for Otuke District and MP-elect for 2026–2031, has thanked residents of Otuke District for overwhelmingly supporting him and other NRM leaders in the recent elections. Acon hailed the electorate for re-electing Woman MP Susan Abeja and Otuke County MP Paul Omara, both NRM flag bearers, as well as Francis Abola, who ran as an independent candidate for LC V but remains aligned with the NRM. “The people returned us to office because of the tangible impact we have made in our communities and the trust they have in us,” Acon said. “It is this record of service that has earned the confidence of Otuke residents.” He stressed that the continued development of Otuke depends on leaders working together. “We must unite to ensure electricity reaches our parishes, schools are constructed, and roads maintained,” Acon said, noting that Otuke’s strong support for President Yoweri Museveni provides a solid foundation for progress. Acon cautioned leaders against engaging in corrupt practices, warning that unethical behaviour could affect their chances of re-election. He also appealed to voters to back NRM candidates in the upcoming local elections on February 4, 2026, for LC III chairperson and councillor positions. “Let all of us work together to develop Otuke for the benefit of our people,” he added. Source The post Otuke East MP Acon Bua Thanks Otuke Residents, Urges Unity Among Elected Leaders appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Oyam, Uganda | A devastating fire in Kamdini Town Council on Saturday has left nine traders counting heavy losses, raising concerns over the livelihoods of small business owners in the area. The blaze, which erupted at around 2:30 PM on 24th January 2026 in Township Cell, Western Ward, destroyed nine kiosks and all the goods inside, according to police. The affected traders include Olang Brian, Opio Aron, Akello Betty, Akello Kunta Beatrice, Awor Elizabeth, Aber Gloria, Ayugi Josephine, Umar Bashir, and Oula Dan. Authorities are yet to estimate the total value of the losses. Preliminary inquiries suggest the fire may have started from an illegal electricity connection in a metallic kiosk belonging to Olang Brian, a mobile money agent. However, police stress that the exact cause is still under investigation. A case of Fire Outbreak / Suspected Arson has been registered at Kamdini Town Council Police Station under GEF 001/2026, and detectives, together with uniformed personnel, have revisited the scene to document evidence. Statements have been taken from victims and witnesses. Residents and business owners in the area expressed concern over the impact on local trade, noting that the destroyed kiosks were central to their daily income. SP PJ Okema, Public Relations Officer for North Kyoga Region, said police are investigating the incident and any possible criminal liability, pledging updates as the probe continues. “Our priority is to determine the cause and ensure that justice is served while supporting affected traders,” Okema said. The incident highlights the vulnerability of small businesses in Kamdini Town Council to fire hazards, particularly where illegal or unsafe electrical connections are in use. Photo Credit: New Vision Source The post Fire Destroys Nine Kiosks in Kamdini Town Council, Oyam District appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Alebtong, Uganda | Security agencies have assured residents of Ajuri County in Alebtong District of a peaceful and secure environment ahead of the parliamentary by-election scheduled for Wednesday, January 27, 2026, following an Electoral Commission directive for a repeat poll in selected areas. The Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Alebtong, Mathias Lutwama, said the Electoral Commission, acting under Section 12(1)(a) of the Electoral Commission Act, ordered a re-run of the parliamentary election in 18 polling stations located in Awei Sub-county and Abako Parish. Speaking to the press on Sunday, Lutwama said security agencies had received intelligence reports indicating that criminally minded individuals were mobilising residents to boycott the vote while others were allegedly inciting unrest and insurrection, contrary to Section 21 of the Penal Code Act. “Some individuals are deliberately discouraging voters from participating in the election and inciting violence. Such acts are illegal and will be dealt with decisively,” Lutwama said. Ads He revealed that several suspects have already been arrested and will be charged in court, adding that investigations are ongoing and more arrests are expected. Lutwama further noted that security agencies had established that some suspects were allegedly ferried into Alebtong District from outside, a move authorities believe was intended to destabilise the electoral process. Despite the security concerns, the Deputy RDC reassured the public that the situation remains calm, saying the Uganda Police Force, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and other sister security agencies have been deployed across the affected areas. “We want to assure the people of Ajuri County that the election will be peaceful. Security agencies are fully prepared to protect voters and ensure that citizens exercise their right to vote as provided under Article 59 of the Constitution,” he said. Lutwama urged residents to remain law-abiding and to turn up in large numbers to participate in the re-run. The parliamentary re-run follows reported irregularities in the earlier election at the affected polling stations. Source The post Alebtong Deputy RDC Mathias Lutwama Assures Peaceful Polls Ahead of Ajuri County Parliamentary Re-run appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Otuke, Uganda | Otuke District leaders have called for unity and reconciliation among newly elected officials, urging them to work together to accelerate development and improve service delivery in the district. The call follows the recently concluded elections, which leaders described as among the most peaceful in the district’s history, with no major incidents of violence reported. Voters across Otuke District cast their ballots in a calm and orderly environment, with all incumbent Members of Parliament flying the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag retaining their seats. Francis Abola also maintained his position as the district Local Council V (LCV) chairperson. Speaking after the elections, Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Isaac Opio Opeo commended voters in Otuke and Ugandans at large for maintaining law and order throughout the electoral process. “This election has been one of the best we have witnessed. The level of discipline and cooperation from voters greatly contributed to the peaceful exercise,” Opio Opeo said. He noted that security agencies are now calling for close cooperation among newly elected Members of Parliament, district chairpersons and councillors to fast-track development in the district. Opio Opeo observed that Otuke has for years lagged behind in service delivery and infrastructure development, stressing that unity among leaders is critical if meaningful progress is to be achieved. Ads “With unity and collaboration, Otuke can overcome its development challenges and improve the lives of its people. Leadership must rise above political differences and focus on the common good,” he said. He further urged elected opposition LCV chairpersons to work closely with the ruling NRM government to ensure effective service delivery to the population. “Government programmes can only succeed when leaders work together regardless of political affiliation. Our people deserve services, not endless political disagreements,” Opio Opeo added. In his concluding remarks, the Assistant RDC appealed to cultural and religious leaders to play an active role in promoting reconciliation and unity among elected leaders, saying harmony at leadership level would create a stable environment for development. Meanwhile, Rev. Ven. Captain Apollo Owikene, the Archdeacon of Orum Archdeaconary, echoed similar sentiments, calling for reconciliation between winners and losers of the elections. Quoting Proverbs 16:36, Rev. Owikene reminded leaders that authority ultimately comes from God, urging them to serve with humility and responsibility. “God chooses leaders. Those who have won and those who have lost must now focus on their respective roles and work together for the good of the community,” he said. He also encouraged voters to turn up in large numbers for the remaining electoral exercises, noting that elections are about choosing leaders who will shape the future of the community. Rev. Owikene concluded by praying for continued peace in Uganda, urging security agencies to remain vigilant and religious leaders to persist in prayer for national stability. The messages from both government and religious leaders underscored the importance of peace, unity and cooperation as key pillars for sustainable development in Otuke District. Source The post Otuke Leaders Call For Unity, Reconciliation After Peaceful Elections appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Soroti, Uganda | Francis Esudu Obwonyo has been elected Mayor of Soroti City after defeating three other candidates in a closely contested election. Results announced by the Soroti City Returning Officer,  John Gonzaga Olinga, show that Esudu secured 11,504 votes, ahead of Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) candidate Omer Paul, who garnered 8,274 votes. The other contenders, Edmond Elasu and Ebitu Simon, polled 3,435 votes and 2,480 votes, respectively. The election registered low voter turnout, according to election officials, despite an energetic campaign period marked by rallies and intensive mobilisation across the city. In his acceptance speech, Esudu thanked voters for the mandate and pledged inclusive leadership. “This victory is not for one group, but for all the people of Soroti City. We must unite and work together to improve service delivery and develop our city,” he said. Soroti City faces several challenges, including poor road infrastructure, unemployment among the youth, sanitation concerns and pressure on public services arising from rapid urban growth. The results were declared at the Soroti City tally centre shortly after completion of vote counting. Source The post Esudu Elected Soroti City Mayor appeared first on Dokolo Post.