Lira, Uganda – Senior National Resistance Movement (NRM) figures in Lira City are backing Hon. Betty Amongi Akena, Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, for the Lira City Woman MP seat in the 2026 elections.
On Saturday, several NRM leaders pledged their support for Ms. Amongi as she officially relocated her polling station from Min Akulu, Oyam district, to Senior Quarters ‘A’ in Lira City East Division. The event was witnessed by thousands of people, including UPC supporters.
Prominent NRM leaders in Lira City are drumming up support for Ms. Amongi, who confirmed her commitment to addressing poverty and announced ambitious plans for the party’s future, including Hon. Jimmy Akena’s presidential candidacy.
Lira City West Division MP, Hon. Shedrick Vincent Obong Eyit, declared that 2026 is UPC’s time to reclaim State House. He commended the family of the late former President Dr. Apollo Milton Obote for sustaining UPC’s legacy and announced a door-to-door mobilization campaign to ensure the party’s presidential candidate wins in 2026.
Senior Presidential Advisor Francis Okello Opio assured the public of NRM’s full support for Ms. Amongi’s bid and dismissed fears of election-related violence as baseless rumors. He stated that the “40 days” of some prominent politicians in Lira City are numbered and that such leaders will not win the 2026 elections. “Betty Amongi’s victory must be guarded jealously. Let us all be her campaign ambassadors,” Mr. Opio urged.
Willy Omodo Omodo, Speaker of the Lango Cultural Institution, also endorsed Ms. Amongi, emphasizing her track record of service and development. He called on Lango voters to prioritize leaders who understand the region’s agenda, citing Ms. Amongi as the best choice for Lira City. “Regardless of political affiliation, let us vote for Betty Amongi,” he said, adding that she promotes peace in Lango and has worked tirelessly for its people.
Geoffrey Etwop, NRM Treasurer for Lira City and clan head of Ober, also endorsed Ms. Amongi, describing her as a vibrant leader who deserves to be elected Lira City Woman MP in 2026.
Thousands of supporters expressed their support for Ms. Amongi as she participated in traditional activities such as grinding and winnowing. She outlined her agenda for development and poverty eradication in Lira City, highlighting her official relocation of her polling station from Oyam Min Akulu to Lira City East Division as a sign of her full commitment to the constituency.
“I urge everyone aged 18 and above to register with the Electoral Commission and check their names on the voters’ register. Your participation is key in shaping Lira City’s future,” she said. Ms. Amongi emphasized her local and international recognition, mentioning invitations to lecture at Harvard Kennedy School of Management and the Australia Institute of Studies. She stated that her academic background allows her to contest anywhere, adding that she is committed to using her knowledge to uplift Lira City.
The event was attended by several key leaders from across the Lango Sub-Region, including: MP Auma Kenny Lapat of Kwania district, MP Maxwell Akora of Maruzi County, Apac District; Kennedy Odongo of Alebtong district; Odongo Asante, the LC V Chairperson of Apac District; Geoffrey Ocen Kiring of Amolatar District; Patrick Ongom Eyul (Mayor, Apac Municipality); George Okello Ayo, Mayor of Lira City East Division; and UPC Chairpersons from across the Lango Sub-Region, including Okala Simon and Ojok Zulu of Apac district.
