Lira, Uganda — The political landscape in Lira City is heating up as Hon. Sarah Awor Angweri, the current Lira City Female Workers’ Representative, officially announced her candidacy for the Woman Member of Parliament (WMP) seat in the 2026 general elections.
Speaking at a press briefing held today at Lira Hotel, Awor unveiled her vision to bring unity, development, and empowerment to Lira City.
Surrounded by supporters and party leaders, she expressed her determination to overcome any challenges in the race for the highly contested seat.
“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. My focus is on unity and development, especially for the youth,” Awor declared.
She also emphasized her readiness to work across political divides, inviting opposition supporters to join her bid.
Daniel Okello, Speaker of Lira City West Division, introduced Awor as the NRM’s hope for a youthful and vibrant leadership.
“The time for youth leadership is now. Sarah is the kind of leader we need to address the challenges of today and bring a brighter future for Lira City,” he stated.
Okello criticized divisions within the NRM party, calling for reconciliation and collective efforts to strengthen the party’s position ahead of the 2026 elections.
Juke Joel, NRM Chairperson for Lira Subcounty, praised Awor’s courage and described her as a bold leader capable of uniting the party.
He warned that internal conflicts within NRM could be exploited by the opposition, urging party members to resolve their differences amicably.
Awor’s announcement has garnered significant support from the youth, who view her as a relatable and approachable leader.
Akello Lydia, a youth leader, described Awor as the “saviour of Lira City,” encouraging young people to rally behind her.
“Sarah understands our struggles and is committed to empowering the youth. Her leadership will bring a new dawn for Lira City,” Akello remarked.
Fr. Alfred Okello Junior, an aspiring MP for Dokolo North, also attended the briefing and endorsed Awor’s candidacy.
“Sarah has the vision and resilience to bring change. Parliament needs new, young leaders like her to shape the future,” he said.
Okello, who has transitioned from priesthood to politics, called on other young leaders to step forward and contest for various positions, emphasizing the need for fresh ideas in governance.
Awor will face stiff competition from political heavyweights, including incumbent Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Minister of Health and NRM flagbearer, and Hon. Betty Amongi Akena, Minister of Gender, Labour & Social Development, who is contesting under the UPC ticket.
Despite the challenges, Awor expressed confidence in her bid. “I will stand firm and deliver on my manifesto once the campaign season officially begins. Together, we will build a united and prosperous Lira City,” she said.
As the 2026 elections approach, today’s press briefing marks the beginning of a high-stakes battle for leadership in Lira City.
