The political landscape in Aruu County is intensifying as the 2026 parliamentary elections approach, with key figures preparing for a highly competitive race.
Charles Ochora, a businessman and former youth worker at Watoto Church in Gulu, has deep-rooted connections in Northern Uganda.
His commitment to youth empowerment and community development has garnered him significant grassroots support, particularly among the youth and women who view him as a champion for their interests.
His educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Development Studies from Gulu University, providing him with insights into social, economic, and political development that inform his vision for Aruu County.
Notably, Ochora was the first beneficiary sponsored by Watoto Church to run for Parliament, marking a significant milestone in his personal journey and setting him apart as a candidate dedicated to giving back to his community. He also holds a diploma in Christian Leadership, reflecting his strong spiritual foundation and dedication to serving others.
In the 2021 general elections, Ochora contested for the Aruu County parliamentary seat. Initially a member of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), he participated in the NRM primaries, where Hellen Aceng emerged victorious.
Subsequently, Christopher Komakech ran as an independent candidate with NRM leanings and won the seat, largely attributed to the influence of his late father, General Paul Lokech.
Feeling marginalized within the NRM, Ochora defected to the National Unity Platform (NUP) to continue his political ambitions. Despite a spirited campaign, he was unsuccessful in the 2021 elections, trailing behind Komakech, Aceng, and Odonga Otto.
Undeterred by past setbacks, Ochora has refocused his efforts, working tirelessly to expand and solidify his support base.
His grassroots campaigns, emphasizing empowerment and development, have earned him growing recognition and respect. His platform, built on the promise of change, directly contrasts with the political dynamics surrounding his opponents.
Christopher Komakech, the incumbent Member of Parliament for Aruu County, secured his seat in the 2021 elections as an independent candidate with NRM leanings, a victory allegedly influenced by his late father, General Paul Lokech, who was the Deputy IGP at the time. Komakech garnered 9,327 votes, surpassing Odonga Otto’s 5,953 votes.
Reports indicate that Komakech is anticipating contesting in the upcoming term on the NRM ticket. However, since the death of his influential father, his standing within the NRM has been questioned, and rumors suggest he may defect to the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), a move that could signal the end of his political career within the ruling party.
With the NRM’s unity faltering and his influence diminishing, many are questioning if Komakech can maintain the loyalty of his supporters or if his father’s legacy will continue to carry him through.
Samuel Odonga Otto, a seasoned politician, has confirmed his return to the race in 2026. Otto brings a significant following, having previously contested against Komakech and Ochora in the 2021 general elections.
He remains a strong contender with a large base of support, making the race for Aruu’s parliamentary seat even more competitive.
In the 2021 elections, Otto lost the bid to retain the Aruu County parliamentary seat for the fifth term to Komakech.
Following his defeat, Otto faced legal challenges, including charges of inciting violence and malicious damage to property, which he claimed were attempts to deter him from pursuing an election petition against Komakech. However, he filed a case later, and the Gulu high court ruled, for a by-election, but Komakech appealed in Kampala high Court, and the ruling was overturned.
In December 2024, Otto announced his intention to reclaim his parliamentary seat in the 2026 elections, stepping back from his earlier presidential aspirations.
He believes his leadership will be more impactful in Parliament, where he feels his efforts are most needed.
The upcoming election in Aruu County is shaping up to be a contest of political legacies, shifting allegiances, and new aspirations.
Charles Ochora, with his growing NUP support, has positioned himself as a key player in the fight for the seat, and his campaign is gathering momentum.
The outcome of this race will be a turning point in the region’s political future, and it’s shaping up to be a contest no one will want to miss.
As the saying goes, [When the roots are deep, there is no reason to fear the wind]. And Ochora’s deep roots in the community, coupled with his steadfast commitment to change, make him a formidable candidate in what promises to be a truly historic election.
