Zombo, Uganda: The political tempo in Zombo District has surged after 14 parliamentary aspirants were officially nominated to contest for seats in Okoro County, Ora County, and the District Woman MP race, marking the close of the nationwide nomination exercise ahead of Uganda’s January 15, 2026, general elections.
The two-day nomination exercise, conducted between October 22 and 23, 2025, turned the Zombo District Electoral Commission (EC) offices on Ofaka Road, Paidha Town Council, into a hive of political activity. Returning Officer Emmanuel Ogwang praised candidates and supporters for maintaining peace and order throughout the process.
“We’ve had a peaceful, transparent nomination exercise. Candidates are now expected to submit their campaign schedules before the harmonization meeting on November 4,” Ogwang said.
A Fierce Race for Zombo Woman MP Seat
The District Woman MP contest has drawn a diverse field of five candidates representing different political traditions and personal convictions, setting the stage for a competitive showdown.
Esther Afoyochan (NRM): The incumbent, nominated after a rigorous verification process, emphasized continuity under the NRM banner. She pledged to intensify her anti-poverty agenda and improve maternal health programs, citing her previous achievements in community health outreach.
“We’ve distributed delivery basins and supported expectant mothers — now we’re focusing on household poverty reduction. Our mission continues,” Afoyochan said.
Sarah Adong (DP): Running on a reformist platform, Adong vowed to champion better infrastructure and social services. “Zombo deserves leaders who can demand better roads, jobs, and services. It’s time for real advocacy, not lip service,” she declared.
Topista Acamfua (Independent): Aiming to unite diverse voter groups, she promised inclusive leadership. “Unity drives progress — I’ll prioritize women, youth, and families for holistic development,” Acamfua said.
Gladys Ngamita (Independent): Focused her message on teachers’ welfare and accountability in local governance. “Teachers are the foundation of every successful community. I’ll fight for their welfare and effective service delivery,” Ngamita said.
Scholastic Uyullu (NUP): The NUP flag bearer criticized the ruling party’s performance and promised transformative leadership. “For years, Zombo has been neglected. We’re ready for real change and youth-led development,” Uyullu said.
Okoro County: Heavyweights and New Faces Collide
The Okoro County race has drawn six aspirants, reflecting both political experience and grassroots activism.
Gabriel Okumu (NRM): The incumbent MP reiterated his commitment to completing ongoing NRM development projects in roads, electrification, and job creation. “The NRM has delivered and will continue delivering. We’re focused on practical, community-centred transformation,” Okumu said.
Eng. Simon D’Ujanga (Independent): A former Energy State Minister, he pledged to “pick up where he left off,” reviving electrification programs and governance reforms.
Innocent Onega Godfrey (Independent): The LCIII Chairperson of Paidha Town Council pledged to champion infrastructural upgrades and municipal status for Paidha. “We need roads, tarmac, and a municipality. Okoro must rise and reclaim its progress,” he said.
Sunday Omirambe (Independent): A journalist-turned-pastor, he is running on a transparency and youth empowerment agenda.
Vincent Orach Ocaya (Independent): Promised economic connectivity and empowerment for young people. “I bring strong lobbying power to end regional isolation and connect our youth to opportunities,” Ocaya said.
Winnifred Pacunega (Independent): Joined the race on a grassroots ticket focused on women and market reforms.
Ora County: NRM Faces Strong Independent Challenge
The Ora County race has attracted three contenders, headlined by high-profile incumbents and seasoned local leaders.
Lawrence Songa Biyika (Independent): The incumbent MP vowed to complete ongoing development projects. “Seventy per cent of my work is done — now I must finish the remaining thirty,” Songa told supporters.
Grace Freedom Kwiyucwiny (NRM): The Minister of State for Northern Uganda said her leadership will promote unity and NRM’s pro-people governance. “My campaign is for unity, stability, and progress for every Zombo citizen,” she said.
Collins Jakony (People’s Front for Freedom): Promised stronger legislative representation and resource accountability. “I’ll be the bridge between the people of Ora and Parliament,” Jakony said.
Independent Surge Challenges NRM Dominance
Political analysts in Zombo say the district, long an NRM stronghold, is witnessing one of its most open races in years, as independents and opposition candidates gain momentum following divisive NRM primaries.
Francis Bolingo, leader of the local opposition coalition, said the diversity of candidates reflects a changing political mood. “For the first time, Zombo’s opposition is organised. The people want accountability and service delivery, not empty promises,” he said.
With the official campaign period beginning on November 10, Zombo is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched battlegrounds in northern Uganda.
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