Dokolo, Uganda | NRM parliamentary flagbearer Ogwal Joseph Jones has outlined wide-ranging promises on social protection, youth empowerment and service delivery during campaign rallies in Adok Subcounty, amid growing signs of consolidated support ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections.
Speaking to residents in Amonolocoo and Te-cuk villages on Tuesday, Ogwal said he would prioritise the welfare of older persons if elected, arguing that all citizens aged 65 and above should benefit from the government’s Social Assistance Grant for Empowerment (SAGE).
He told the crowd that no elderly person should be excluded.
Ogwal, who has backed youth football programmes for more than a decade, said he intends to expand opportunities for young people through skilling centres and targeted support for income generating activities.
He added that land had already been secured for the establishment of an adult learning and vocational training facility in the constituency.
On infrastructure, the candidate said his focus would be on ensuring that local and district-level budgets are properly monitored and approved so that road improvements are delivered.
He cited the long-delayed Adok Seed Secondary School, saying he had followed up the matter to the Ministry of Education and that only a groundbreaking ceremony remained.
Ogwal also pledged to extend electricity coverage across Dokolo North and advocated for a Health Centre III in Adok Subcounty.
As part of his human capital plan, he said he hopes to facilitate the training of five doctors and 30 nurses from the area.
The NRM flagbearer criticised wealthy individuals whom he accused of “manipulating politics” during election season and disappearing thereafter, leaving communities without services.
He said the constituency continues to struggle with poor roads, limited clean water access, and high dropout rates, which have pushed many young people into low-paying security jobs in Kampala and other regions.
Beyond economic pledges, Ogwal vowed to protect Lango cultural heritage and announced plans to push for legislation safeguarding customary land, giving cultural institutions powers to issue land ownership permits to local families.
Local NRM leaders used the rally to urge residents to vote strictly for party flagbearers, Adok Subcounty NRM Chairperson Okori David said electing non-NRM candidates weakens the area’s ability to lobby for development.
Opio Sam, an NRM mobiliser, accused some party officials of seeking money from opposition and independent candidates, warning that such actions risk confusing voters and undermining the party’s chances.
Sam Ogwang Amwoma, another party supporter, said there was widespread dissatisfaction with incumbent MP Moses Ogwal Goli, who is contesting as an independent after losing the NRM primaries.
He urged residents to rally behind Ogwal Joseph Jones, arguing that President Museveni “needs MPs who are flagbearers” to ensure government programmes reach communities.
Adok Subcounty LCIII Chairperson Ogwali Rubby read out community demands, including electricity expansion and support for women and youth groups.
He endorsed Ogwal as the leader best placed to deliver on these priorities.
The rallies drew large crowds, with many residents publicly declaring their intention to vote for Ogwal in the January 2026 elections.
Local leaders described the event as evidence of shifting political momentum in Dokolo North ahead of what is expected to be a competitive parliamentary race.
