By Chris Woo
Oyam, Uganda – After 15 years away from active politics, former Oyam MP Beatrice Amongi Lagada has re-entered the political arena, seeking to represent Northern Uganda’s older persons in Parliament.
Her bid received strong backing from members of the Oyam Elders Sacco during a meeting held at Rainbow Hotel in Oyam Town Council on April 18, 2025.
Speaking to the press after the endorsement, Lagada affirmed her commitment to the race, citing persistent calls for her return.
She emphasized that her absence had left leadership gaps across Northern Uganda, making many feel excluded.
As the former NRM Deputy Director for Mobilization for nine years, Lagada expressed confidence in winning the upcoming election, pledging to empower older persons through initiatives such as cashew nut tree planting, livestock projects, and scholarships for their children and grandchildren.
Reflecting on her past efforts, she recalled sponsoring over 50 students through university in her scholarship program.
Lagada urged older persons to remain industrious, encouraging them to join savings and credit groups to secure financial stability.
Oyam District NRM Vice Chairperson Martin Abila praised Lagada’s transparency and leadership, recalling her past empowerment projects, including the widely recognized goat distribution program.
Many beneficiaries named their goats “Lagada” in her honor. Abila also highlighted her advocacy for district-wide electricity installation, which transformed Oyam South.
Richard Tabaro, Oyam’s Deputy Resident District Commissioner, encouraged elders to rally behind the NRM government, cautioning against misleading narratives from opposition parties.
He pointed out that Oyam lacks representation in the NRM caucus, which determines national budget allocations, urging voters to elect MPs aligned with the ruling party.
Hon. Faibi Agweng, the female LC5 councillor for older persons in Oyam, applauded Lagada’s goat empowerment project, noting that a women’s group initially given 10 goats now boasts over 50.
Elder Secondo Aguma of Iceme Sub County expressed disappointment in the current district leadership, criticizing its focus on short-term donations rather than sustainable development.
With this endorsement, Lagada is expected to replace Catherine Mavenjina who is the current Mp representingNorthern Uganda’s Older Persons in Parliament.
