Kampala, Uganda – Kilak North Member of Parliament, Hon. Anthony Akol, has officially crossed from the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), citing persistent poverty in his constituency as a driving factor behind his decision.
Akol, who gained nationwide attention after a parliamentary altercation with MP Francis Zaake, announced his defection publicly, saying that despite years of advocating from the opposition benches, his people in Kilak North have seen little improvement in their livelihoods.
“I have been in the opposition for a long time, but the poverty in my constituency continues to grow. When I compare my area to regions under NRM leadership, the difference is clear,” Akol stated.
The lawmaker says his move is guided by a desire to deliver tangible development to his community. He believes aligning with the ruling party will provide better access to government programs and opportunities that have long eluded his constituency.
His defection has sparked reactions across the political divide. Some opposition supporters view Akol’s decision as a betrayal of principle, while others interpret it as a pragmatic shift in the interest of local development.
This move also adds to the growing trend of opposition politicians crossing over to the NRM ahead of the 2026 general elections—a sign of realignments taking shape in Uganda’s political landscape.
As Akol settles into his new political home, all eyes will be on whether his move translates into meaningful change for the people of Kilak North.
