Lira City, Uganda – A gathering of senior National Resistance Movement (NRM) cadres at Lira Hotel on December 1, 2024, underscored the growing political contest in Lira City ahead of the 2026 elections.
The meeting convened in support of Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, the incumbent Woman Member of Parliament (WMP) for Lira City, highlighted her significant contributions to the region while addressing emerging challenges from political rivals.
This assembly came in the wake of Hon. Sarah Awor Angweri’s announcement on November 20, 2024, of her intention to contest for the same seat.
Awor’s declaration, coupled with rumours of Minister Betty Amongi Akena’s interest in the position, has intensified the political dynamics in Lira City, prompting NRM cadres to close ranks and defend Dr. Aceng’s leadership.
Sarah Awor Angweri, currently the Lira City Female Workers’ Representative, officially declared her candidacy at a press briefing last month, pledging to focus on youth empowerment, unity, and development.
Her announcement drew significant attention and sparked debates about leadership in Lira City, with her supporters calling for a shift toward youthful and vibrant representation.
“I am not intimidated by anyone vying for this position. The Ugandan Constitution grants me the right to contest, and I will not let my supporters down,” Awor said during her announcement.
However, this move also mobilized Dr. Aceng’s supporters, who emphasized her transformative track record and rallied to defend her position.
NRM cadres viewed Awor’s announcement and Minister Amongi’s rumoured bid as threats to party unity and Dr. Aceng’s legacy.
At Sunday’s meeting, NRM cadres highlighted Dr. Aceng’s exemplary leadership and significant contributions to Lira City and Uganda.
Her achievements include upgrading Lira Regional Referral Hospital, improving Apac District Hospital, and spearheading the elevation of health centres across the region.
“Dr. Aceng’s work speaks for itself,” said Okot George, a senior cadre. “She has been instrumental in transforming healthcare and infrastructure in Lira City. Her leadership embodies the values of the NRM.”
Moses Opio Obaa, another cadre, noted Dr. Aceng’s ability to unite people across political divides, earning her support even from opposition parties. He described her as the best candidate to retain the WMP seat and urged party members to rally behind her for 2026.
Cadres also addressed the candidacy of Sarah Awor Angweri and the rumoured entry of Minister Betty Amongi Akena into the race. Many questioned the motives and track records of these challengers.
“Awor’s declaration of candidacy raises concerns about her readiness and commitment to the NRM,” said Patrick Okwir Kampala, a trained cadre. “Leadership demands a proven track record, and Dr. Aceng has already delivered results.”
Okot George questioned why Amongi, a legislator from Oyam and a Minister in the government, would leave her constituency to contest in Lira City. “She should focus on her constituency instead of disrupting the progress we’ve made here,” he stated.
Assistant RDC Okot Jonal called on cadres to focus on promoting NRM’s Prosperity and Wealth Creation programs while avoiding divisive politics.
“Our mission as cadres is to mobilize people for socio-economic transformation,” Jonal said. “Dr. Aceng is a shining example of what we can achieve when we work together.”
As the 2026 elections draw closer, the rivalry among Dr. Aceng, Sarah Awor Angweri, and the possible candidacy of Betty Amongi are shaping up to be one of Lira City’s most contested political battles.
However, Sunday’s meeting demonstrated that Dr. Aceng’s supporters are determined to defend her record and ensure her continued leadership.
For NRM cadres, the focus remains clear: to unite behind a leader who has consistently delivered for Lira City and the party.
As the political landscape intensifies, Dr. Aceng’s supporters are mobilizing to ensure her vision of progress and stability prevails in the face of mounting challenges.
