The Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong, while addressing hundreds of NRM dignitaries on Wednesday at St. Lira Hotel in Lira City, stated that the vote for UPC in the Lango sub-region cannot lead to a takeover of the government because national-level votes ultimately determine outcomes.
“We conducted two by-elections in Lango, and we lost both. This meeting is a call to order and a stepping stone to reconciliation,” he said. He thanked the security forces for ensuring that the area has been peaceful over the past year, adding that peace brings hope to families and the community.
Todwong highlighted several success stories under NRM leadership over 15 years of peaceful coexistence. He challenged NRM party dignitaries to reflect on the time wasted during the war. He also congratulated the Lango sub-region for showing a growing awareness among the population, indicating progress toward wealth creation.
Regarding the Acholi sub-region, Todwong noted that while the war is over, the local economy remains at a low level, evidenced by the presence of products like peanut butter, gnut paste, and charcoal along Lacekocot toward Kitgum. He mentioned that in Gulu, the local population is no longer actively participating in the local economy, including owning lodges and other booming businesses.
According to him, peace has been restored in Northern Uganda since 2007, following the LRA insurgency. He expressed concern that the focus seems to be on UPC potentially taking over Lango, overshadowing discussions about government social programs that must reach common beneficiaries.
Todwong pointed out that there could be gaps in leadership at the village, parish, and sub-county levels, adding that the positive actions taken for others can ultimately benefit oneself.
Prof. Bishop Alfred Olwa of Lango Diocese remarked that the rivalry between NRM and UPC in Lira City represents a healthy democracy, but it is also very divisive for the people of Lango. He questioned, “Where is the mighty NRM while this division is taking place?” His concluding statement to SG Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong was, “Inspect if you want to expect.”
