Amolatar, Uganda — Over 140 NRM leaders from village to town council level gathered at Alobo Okwe Cell, Wabinuo Ward, Namasale Town Council for a strategic consultation meeting with Col. Dr. Francis Ongia, a strong contender for the Kioga Constituency MP seat under the NRM ticket.
The meeting, held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, focused on unity, accountability, and effective representation, with leaders expressing deep concerns over political absenteeism and internal divisions within the party.
Namasale Town Council LCIII Chairperson Ayena Godfrey called for unity, urging NRM members to end internal divisions and hold their leaders accountable.
“We elected leaders, but no one returned to engage the people. That’s our challenge,” Ayena stated.
NRM Chairperson for Namasale Town Council Egor Paul criticized village chairpersons for failing to defend the party.
He cautioned NRM registrars against aligning with candidates before primaries and urged voters to reject aspirants who avoid public engagement.
“Support leaders like Col. Ongia, who face the people,” Egor emphasized.
Ajuli Ray, NRM Chairperson for Acii Subcounty, applauded Ongia’s maturity and advised him to keep grassroots leaders close.
Ojek Tonny, NRM Chairperson for Namasale Subcounty, encouraged voters to support credible leadership and urged Ongia to remain focused.
Col. Ongia, currently serving under Uganda Development Corporation (UDC) led by Gen. Salim Saleh oversees regional projects in Acholi, Lango, West Nile, Teso, and Bukedi.
He confirmed his intention to run for Kioga MP under NRM, promising to lobby for infrastructure, health, agriculture, roads, and education.
He warned against politicians, making empty promises.
“Don’t be deceived by manifestos. Ask how they will tap into the National Development Plan (2026–2031),” he said, urging voters to prioritize leaders with networks and government recognition.
Ongia addressed concerns over Alwala land, where a community school project was being diverted into private ownership by Slava Ministries, an Australian-linked NGO.
He condemned attempts to transfer land titles to foreign individuals, calling it unconstitutional.
Opio Anthony alias Opio Ocen, present at the 27 February 2025 meeting at Gen. Saleh’s residence in Gulu revealed four resolutions:
1. The school shall be named after Imat Tino Lucy.
2. Tino Lucy will join the board of directors.
3. Col. Ongia should be compensated for his input.
4. A follow-up meeting will include Gen. Saleh, Peter Tarcea, Col. Ongia, and Tino Lucy.
These resolutions, broadcasted on Hot FM, corrected misinformation, and earned Ongia renewed public support.
Mzee Opio Wenga criticized the NRM Secretariat for neglecting village-level leaders.
Former supporter for incumbent Kioga Constituency MP Ocen Obua shifted allegiance to Ongia, warning that NRM risks losing Kioga if Ongia is denied the flag.
“If he’s not the flag bearer, we’ll support other parties,” Ocen stated.
Ebek Jimmy warned against fielding weak candidates and urged party leaders to vet aspirants carefully.
Ongia concluded by highlighting the performance of MPs with military backgrounds, suggesting that disciplined, patriotic leadership brings better results.
