Arua, Uganda: Former Minister for Gender, Labour and Social Development, Hon Zoe Bakoko Bakoru, who fled into exile in 2007 amid controversy over a Shs8 billion NSSF housing scandal, has officially indicated her intention to contest for the Ayivu East parliamentary seat come 2026 after a politically symbolic homecoming this year.
Considered a staunch member of the NRM, Bakoko quietly returned to Uganda in August 2024 following a presidential pardon from President Museveni, ending 16 years of self-imposed exile. Since then, she has been based in Gulu under the hospitality of Gen. Salim Saleh, Museveni’s brother.
Local political leaders, including former Resident District Commissioner Drani Dradriga, are actively lobbying for her candidacy, pointing to a leadership void in West Nile. They credit Bakoko’s return with bringing renewed political energy and unity to the region.
A grand homecoming event took place in Arua on 13 April 2025, during which she was lauded for her work promoting peace and development, including contributions to the conflict resolution process involving the West Nile Bank Front and UNRF II.
Although she’s yet to formally declare her intention for the seat, insiders say her candidacy for Ayivu East is expected, especially with splits in Arua City politics and potential creation of new constituencies that support her ambition.
Her comeback has been met with enthusiasm from structures within the NRM. Joyce Amaguru, NRM chairperson for Arua City, said the former legislator is a seasoned party stalwart whose mobilisation skills will be instrumental during the 2026 general election.
However, Bakoko’s return is not without controversy. MPs and civil society organisations have called for clarification on the outstanding NSSF scandal, asserting that any potential amnesty must include full restitution.
Whether Bakoko can transform her homecoming momentum into electoral victory remains unclear. But one thing is certain: her re-entry into Uganda’s political scene is likely to reconfigure West Nile’s power dynamics and give the ruling party renewed strength in the region.
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