By Jaspher Ouni
As the vibrant heartland of Dokolo prepares for Uganda’s pivotal 2026-31 general elections, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) is laying the groundwork for an electoral strategy to ensure triumph.
This past weekend, the verdant hills of Dokolo resonated with determined political discourse as key party operatives convened with local members at the storied Dokolo parish hall—a gathering marked by strategic foresight and collective resolve.
Presiding over this landmark meeting was Ambassador Paul Amoru, the esteemed High Commissioner of Uganda to South Africa, a figure of formidable political sagacity and a former Member of Parliament for Dokolo North county.
Accompanying him was Felix Okot, the dynamic Member of Parliament for Dokolo South, whose passionate advocacy for local issues has galvanized many within the community.
The session distilled several critical objectives: meticulous preparation for the forthcoming elections, candid assessment of underlying challenges, introspective analysis of the NRM’s historical performance, and, most importantly, fostering an unshakeable bond of trust with the steadfast people of Dokolo.
In his compelling address, Ambassador Amoru emphasized unwavering support for President Yoweri Museveni and the NRM’s diverse array of flag bearers.
Highlighting the NRM’s role as a beacon of stability, Amoru enumerated its remarkable accomplishments, including maintaining peace and security in a turbulent region.
The NRM’s advancements in infrastructure, education, and health across Uganda have been instrumental in knitting together a vision of holistic national progress, driven in part by innovative initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, which uplift household wealth and stimulate the economy.
Addressing swirling social media conjectures about his potential political resurgence in Dokolo North, Ambassador Amoru elucidated that any decisions would require presidential approval—a testament to procedural rigor and transparency.
His openness to the possibility, should grassroots support surge, reassures party loyalists of his adaptable yet principled approach.
Parallel to Ambassador Amoru’s inspirational discourse, Felix Okot projected an electrifying confidence about the NRM’s assured success in Dokolo district.
His declarations were a rallying cry, highlighting robust local support networks poised to ensure comprehensive electoral victories.
The meeting’s prestigious attendees included Resident District Commissioner Barbra Akech, who, with fervent conviction, urged attendees to amplify mobilization efforts.
Her emphasis on unity and concerted effort underscored the NRM’s path to assured triumph.
Despite the overarching success narrative, several party stalwarts voiced profound concerns regarding challenges endemic to political mobilization.
Geoffrey Opio Ekong, Agwata’s NRM chairperson, courageously spotlighted corruption as a persistent hindrance to effective grassroots engagement, challenging the party to address this malady.
In response, Rashid Eton of the NRM district executive committee advocated for entrusting local leadership with the stewardship of election funds—a strategy aimed at avoiding the logistical failures witnessed in Dokolo’s previous by-election.
His call for Ambassador Amoru’s candidacy in Dokolo North underscored a widespread belief in his leadership prowess and resonant track record.
In highlighting the party’s accomplishments, Tonny Odongo Ocen, the NRM caucus chairperson, conveyed successes such as bolstered membership recruitment and strategic roles within local government.
However, he also voiced a cautionary note on the need for the party to deepen its engagement in addressing developmental impasses.
These sentiments were passionately echoed by Joel Opota, urging honesty in discourse about the party’s projects—a plea emblematic of the earnest introspection permeating the meeting.
The potential ebb of the NRM’s grasp on Dokolo North was a theme raised by Tonny Obel, the insightful LC3 chairperson of Agwata town council.
Obel’s warning of MP Moses Ogwal Goli’s faltering leadership sparked calls for the return of Amoru’s seasoned stewardship to secure the NRM’s stronghold.
Nonetheless, as political dynamics shift, the chorus for accountable, community-centered leadership—led by thoughtful voices like Christopher Odwee and Kirya James—resoundingly calls for unity and transparency as the NRM recalibrates its mission to secure enduring dominance in Dokolo and all of Uganda.
Amidst the compelling narratives and strategic realignment, it is unmistakable that the NRM faces critical challenges that necessitate astute mobilization and cohesive unity.
With unwavering determination, the party sets its sights on a triumphant future, ready to solidify its legacy through strategic engagement and visionary leadership.
As Dokolo looks ahead, the NRM stands poised to chart a course leading the district toward vibrant development and national prosperity.
