Agago District – There are already strong signs of an intense race within the NRM as three prominent MP aspirants drum up support ahead of the party primaries in Agago West Constituency.
Onying James Penywi
Mr. James Onying Penywi, MP Anywar Ricky Richard, and Akasa Jimmy Mokili are all running neck and neck as of early May 2025, each receiving significant support ahead of the NRM party primaries.
Most recently, the three aspirants held separate consultative rallies in Lira Palwo Town Council, where they shared their manifestos and visions with their supporters.
Last week, Mr. Penywi addressed voters in Bulutwomo Ward, Pyergweng, and Abone North Cell in Lira Palwo Town Council. He explained his decision to contest in the upcoming election, citing weaknesses in the current leadership and many unattended development issues in the constituency.
According to Mr. Penywi, there is a lack of proper representation in Parliament, poor poverty eradication strategies, and weak performance in schools across Agago District. He promised to bring change if elected, focusing on wealth creation, improved healthcare, and addressing poor road conditions in Arum, Lamiyo, Agengo, Geregere, Omot, and other sub-counties in Agago West.
In a twist of events, some voters in Lira Palwo accused current leaders of helping only a few well-off civil servants, neglecting the needs of ordinary, poor voters.
Anywar Ricky Richard
Incumbent MP Anywar Ricky Richard, who is currently serving Agago West Constituency, addressed voters during a thanksgiving rally in Lapilyet Ward. He raised security concerns, alleging that two individuals suspected of possessing illegal firearms were seen around Lira Palwo Town Council. He called for a full investigation ahead of the 2026 elections, suggesting these individuals might be politically motivated goons sent to intimidate aspirants and supporters.
Some residents, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed the MP’s statement was sensitive, possibly untrue, and could be political propaganda aimed at garnering sympathy votes.
Hon. Anywar urged voters to reject violence and divisionism, warning that it could escalate tensions ahead of the primaries. He emphasized the need for unity and discipline during the elections.
He also highlighted his achievements in office, including the rehabilitation of several boreholes, distribution of piglets, and support for youth programs during his tenure in the 11th Parliament.
Akasa Jimmy Mokili
Recently, MP aspirant Akasa Jimmy Mokili intensified his grassroots mobilization efforts across Agago West, engaging various groups and advocating for his vision for the constituency.
A vibrant, dynamic, and committed young leader with a military background, Akasa has gained widespread support among ordinary citizens. He recently launched the donation of an ambulance to Lanyirinyiri Health Centre II in Lira Palwo Sub-county, demonstrating his commitment to improved healthcare service delivery.
He is now preparing for a door-to-door, village-to-village campaign ahead of the 2026 general election, aiming to secure the NRM flag in what is shaping up to be a hotly contested race.
Akasa urged the people of Agago to rally behind leaders who can bring meaningful development to the district.
Outlook for the 2026 Elections
The three MP hopefuls are vying for the Agago West seat under the National Resistance Movement (NRM). The eventual NRM flag bearer will face opposition candidates from UPC, FDC, DP, NUP, and others in the 2026 general election.
These aspirants are not only campaigning for votes but are also actively promoting the NRM party ideology and its four core principles. Momentum is building within the party, and many former opposition supporters in Lira Palwo Town Council and surrounding sub-counties are now joining the NRM.
For example, Okot Edwin Mwanga of Bulutwomo Ward recently joined the NRM, along with several other former FDC supporters — a clear indication that the NRM is expanding its grassroots support just eight months before the general election.
