Amolatar youth push for NRM district elections

19 June 2025, 2:42 pm

By Sarah Ejang and Ivan Onyinge Bangwelo

On 17 June 2025, the youth of Amolatar convened a critical consultative session, entrusting Mr Oremo Odwe with the key responsibility of addressing the ongoing concerns surrounding the stalled internal party elections within the National Resistance Movement (NRM). This appointment reflects the confidence and hope the youth leaders have in Mr Odwe, who is not only a candidate for the Northern Youth MP seat but also holds a prominent role within the NRM secretariat.

The suspension of the electoral process by the Electoral Commission has left many young voters feeling frustrated and disenfranchised. According to the youth leaders, the delay raises serious concerns about the democratic legitimacy of the party’s leadership in the region. “We need answers, and we need action,” said Okabo Solomon, a prominent youth leader. He stressed the importance of someone taking their concerns directly to the President, given the far-reaching implications for youth representation.

In response to these growing frustrations, Mr Odwe pledged to actively follow up on the party structure elections, ensuring that the voices of the youth are acknowledged in the decision-making process. He emphasised the importance of effective communication during this pivotal period and committed to engaging major media outlets, including television, to amplify the concerns and recommendations of young people at the highest levels of government. “I will be your voice,” he assured them, highlighting his dedication to representing their interests if elected.

Mr Odwe has also developed a five-point manifesto that outlines his commitment to advancing the welfare of youth in Northern Uganda. His key priorities include:

1. Establishing a Centre of Excellence for Talent Development: This initiative aims to nurture skills and talent among the youth, providing a platform for creative expression and professional growth.
2. Promoting Skills Development and Entrepreneurship: In light of high unemployment rates, Mr Odwe plans to foster entrepreneurial skills that empower young people to create their own opportunities.
3. Ensuring Access to Accurate Information: He aims to combat misinformation by ensuring young people have access to reliable information, enabling them to make informed decisions.
4. Advocating for Fair Minimum Wage Policies: Recognising the economic challenges faced by the youth, Mr Odwe intends to champion policies that promote equitable wages.
5. Championing ICT and AI Advancements: He is committed to integrating information and communication technology, as well as artificial intelligence, into both education and the job market to boost competitiveness and innovation in the region.

As the situation continues to unfold, the youth of Amolatar remain hopeful that, under Mr Odwe’s leadership and determined advocacy, they can overcome the setbacks caused by the delays in NRM’s internal elections. With a united voice and a proactive approach, they seek to ensure that youth interests are not sidelined but are instead placed at the heart of political discourse and governance in the district.