Newcomers triumph over incumbent MPs in NRM primaries in Lango

20 July 2025, 3:09 pm

By Baker Okello

As the political atmosphere heats up ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections, the public is beginning to scrutinise the profiles of emerging aspirants in the Lango sub-region who defeated incumbent National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearers in the recently concluded parliamentary primaries.

In Kole District, Sandra Aceng Odongo caused a major upset by defeating the Chairperson of the Lango Parliamentary Group, Hon. Judith Alyek, with 20,215 votes to Alyek’s 11,005.

Aceng is the Executive Director of Women of Uganda Network (WOUGNET), where she advocates for gender inclusion in digital rights and ICT policy. She is a gender and ICT researcher, policy analyst, writer, and active contributor to Wikimedia platforms.

In Kyoga North Constituency, Okodo Peter, a private businessman, secured 10,570 votes, defeating Hon. James Olobo Dubai.

Okodo is the proprietor of Jerusalem School of Nursing and Galilee Pharmacy. He is also known for his involvement in youth empowerment through initiatives such as the Kakebe Tech Camp, which offers ICT training to young people.

In Alebtong District, Dr Lakisa Mercy triumphed with 25,325 votes, toppling Hon. Acen Dorcas, who garnered 8,348 votes.

Dr Lakisa is a dental surgeon and youth leader who began her political journey as National Vice Chairperson of the Uganda National Students’ Association (UNSA) and later served as the 83rd Vice Guild President at Makerere University.

In Kwania County, Eron Tonny emerged victorious with 7,732 votes, narrowly beating incumbent Hon. Tonny Ayo, who received 7,253 votes.