In a significant show of force, Sam Engola, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flagbearer for Erute South County, intensified his campaign with rallies in Itek Subcounty, where he unveiled a UGX 2.4 billion government electrification plan and positioned himself as the key to unlocking development for the constituency.
The campaign events in Ajia and Bar-Ober were marked by strong turnout and sharp criticism of the area’s current Member of Parliament, Jonathan Odur of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), whom speakers accused of a decade of stagnation.
Accountability and Access to the “National Cake”
Setting the tone, Robert Okodia, Chairperson of Engola’s Task Force, framed the upcoming election as a moment of accountability. He argued that past representatives had failed to deliver and insisted that Engola’s election would secure Erute South a place in the influential NRM parliamentary caucus. “This would ensure that Erute South benefits from the ‘national cake’,” Okodia stated, highlighting the perceived advantage of being represented within the ruling party.
This sentiment was echoed by Engola himself, who noted that with over 300 NRM MPs in a 500-member Parliament, opposition legislators wield little influence. “It makes it crucial for Erute South to be represented from within the ruling party if development is to reach the constituency,” Engola told the gathering.
Shifting Allegiances and Local Grievances
The political mood showed signs of realignment, with a notable group of UPC members from several subcounties attending the rally. Oyuku Kenneth, a former Odur supporter, publicly switched allegiance, citing a lack of tangible work on boreholes and road maintenance during the incumbent’s tenure. “I have seen no tangible work,” he said, urging residents to vote for President Yoweri Museveni and Engola to bring development.
Local engineer Fred Apita intensified the criticism, targeting both Odur and Lira District Woman MP Agnes Linda Auma for allegedly failing to improve roads despite serving on the national roads committee. Apita tied the constituency’s long-held ambition for district status directly to Engola’s potential influence at the national level.
Promises of Development and District Creation
Taking the podium, Engola focused on his development pledges and connections. He revealed that following his engagements with the Ministry of Energy, UGX 2.4 billion had been allocated for constituency electrification projects, a move he said would boost local businesses.
Furthermore, Engola disclosed that through coordination with Lira District leadership, he is confident President Museveni would endorse the creation of Erute District during his campaign visits. “My strong connections with cabinet ministers make it easier for me to secure development projects,” he added, listing over 100 secured water projects and a track record of sponsoring 350 Lango students, with 60 now medical doctors.
A “Sure Deal” for Security and Consolidation
The campaign received endorsements from local authorities. Lira District Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Lillian Eyal described Engola as a “sure deal” for a future ministerial appointment and the right candidate to help President Museveni consolidate national achievements. She assured residents of maximum security during the election period.
Geoffrey Etwop, Ober Clan Chief, praised Engola as a respected national figure who had personally assisted him, pledging future collaboration on bridge rehabilitation projects if Engola is elected.
Engola’s Pitch: Peace and Completion
Addressing claims that he is using government machinery for campaigns, Engola dismissed them as propaganda, stating he had come “in peace.” His core message was one of return and completion. “I am returning to
