Kole, Uganda – Kole North Member of Parliament, Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti, has officially crossed over to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), signaling a major political shift in the constituency ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Dr. Opio, who was elected as an Independent candidate in 2021, made the announcement on Sunday while meeting party leaders and supporters at the NRM offices in Aboke Town Council.
The MP revealed that he intends to seek re-election under the NRM banner in the next polls.
He attributed his decision to the party’s development-focused agenda, stating that the NRM has delivered tangible results in Kole and the broader Lango sub-region.
“I am joining NRM because of its vision and the clear commitment it has shown in delivering services to our people,” Dr. Opio stated.
He pointed to key government interventions, such as the upgrading of the Lira-Kamdini road, the construction of Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium, ongoing healthcare improvements and the deployment of ambulances in Kole District, as indicators of meaningful progress under NRM leadership.
Dr. Opio emphasized that his move is driven by a desire to align with a system that can help him more effectively meet the needs of his constituents.
Local NRM leaders warmly welcomed his decision, describing it as a significant boost to the party’s political capital in the region.
The NRM Registrar is expected to formalize Dr. Opio’s registration as a party member later this week.
Observers say his defection is likely to shake up political calculations in Kole, particularly as the 2026 elections approach.
With the backing of the NRM’s well-established structures, Dr. Opio is expected to be a strong contender for a second term.
His move also underscores the NRM’s ongoing strategy of consolidating its base in Northern Uganda, further entrenching its dominance in the region’s political landscape.
