The Fall of FDC in Teso: What Changed at the Ballot Box — Kanyum MP Simon Peter Opolot Okwalinga Explains
For nearly two decades, Teso was a stronghold of opposition politics. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) dominated elections across the sub-region, presenting itself as a symbol of resistance against the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). From Soroti to Kumi, Bukedea to Ngora, opposition candidates consistently won, often by wide margins. The 2026 elections, however, delivered a dramatic political shift. Several constituencies that were once untouchable by the NRM fell decisively to the ruling party, while prominent opposition figures suffered surprising defeats. At the centre of this transformation is Simon Peter Opolot Okwalinga, re-elected Member of Parliament for Kanyum County. Known to supporters as “The Guardian,” Opolot is credited with weakening and dismantling the opposition’s political machinery in the sub-region. Opposition Stronghold Gives Way Historically, FDC leveraged grievances such as cattle rustling, insecurity, poverty, and the lingering effects of insurgencies like the Uganda People’s Army (UPA) to mobilise voters. Opolot argues that opposition politics eventually became more about fear and propaganda than practical solutions. “For a long time, the opposition thrived on propaganda,” he said. “The biggest claim was that government wanted to grab people’s land. Lies have a lifespan, and eventually truth catches up.” He added that when voters compared claims with reality, they realised that government had not interfered with their land as claimed. The Kanyum Contest The collapse of FDC’s influence was most visible in Kanyum County. Official results show Opolot securing 11,558 votes, comfortably ahead of his competitors. FDC president Patrick Oboi Amuriat received only 3,441 votes, finishing fourth behind independent candidates Orena Vincent (6,018 votes) and Kedi Saul Patrick (4,608 votes). Other candidates included Okanya John Kokas (1,697), Aduba Joel (441), Akabwai James (NUP, 190), and Orion Osman (131). Analysts say the outcome reflected a fragmented opposition, loss of trust in traditional leaders, and growing acceptance of NRM’s development-focused message. From Protest to Performance Opolot recalls that even during the 2021 elections, when Amuriat ran for president, he lost at his own polling station—a sign that opposition influence was waning. “This time, the people spoke clearly—they chose delivery over anger,” he said. Opolot attributes his success to a focus on service delivery, including initiatives in security, education, and livelihoods. He has worked with Gombolola Internal Security Officers (GISOs) to curb illegal livestock movement and criminal activity, improving community trust in government. In education, he highlighted the establishment of a technical school in Kanyum to equip school dropouts with practical skills. Lessons for the Opposition Opolot urged opposition leaders to rethink strategies, stressing that protest politics without delivery no longer resonates with voters. “Noise without service means nothing,” he said. “The people want results, not rhetoric.” He also highlighted ongoing challenges such as corruption and unemployment, calling for wealth declaration, anti-corruption measures, and expanded skilling hubs across the sub-region. A Political Turning Point The 2026 elections mark a profound shift in Teso politics. Opposition figures are losing influence, while NRM-aligned leaders consolidate power. Analysts suggest that Teso voters are increasingly prioritising tangible development and accountability over party loyalty. “The people have seen light,” Opolot concluded. “Leadership is about service. Protest politics without delivery is no longer enough.” Source The post The Fall of FDC in Teso: What Changed at the Ballot Box — Kanyum MP Simon Peter Opolot Okwalinga Explains appeared first on Dokolo Post.