Kole, Uganda | Kole North is gearing up for a competitive parliamentary race in the 2026 general elections after former NRM aspirant Patrick Awongo Ogwal announced he will run as an independent, following his defeat in the party’s primaries to incumbent MP Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti.
Awongo, who picked nomination forms on Wednesday, claimed that the NRM primary results had been manipulated to favour the incumbent.
He insisted, however, that the ultimate decision would be made by the electorate during the general election scheduled for January next year.
Although launching an independent campaign, Awongo stressed that he remains aligned with the NRM and intends to continue supporting the party unless it formally disowns him.
He outlined that his campaign will focus on improving access to quality education, strengthening healthcare services, promoting modern agricultural practices to support farmers, and ensuring effective representation for the people of Kole North.
Awongo also highlighted that his decision to run as an independent is driven by a desire to give constituents a genuine choice, reflecting concerns from the community about internal party processes and ensuring that the voice of the people is respected.
Political analysts suggest that Awongo’s entry as an independent could turn the race into one of the most closely watched contests in Lango Subregion.
The Electoral Commission of Uganda has officially opened nominations for candidates aspiring to represent constituencies in Uganda’s 2025-2026 Parliament.
Prospective MPs must be at least 18 years old and possess a minimum of an A’ Level education or its equivalent.
Each candidate is required to present the support of at least 10 registered voters from their constituency and pay a nomination fee of UGX 3,000,000.
Public officers intending to contest are expected to resign by 17 July 2025 ahead of the nomination period, which is scheduled for 15–16 October 2025 at the designated Gazetted District Nomination Centers across the country.
