Oyam aspirants call for unity in NRM primary elections

5 February 2025, 11:03 am

By Eman Yonah Oruk

Aspirants vying for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer position in Oyam district have called for unity among themselves to eliminate all Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) members from the district. This was announced during a meeting convened by the District Executive Members at Oyam Annexe Guest House in Oyam town on February 4, 2025. The meeting aimed to foster unity and prepare for the forthcoming NRM primary elections.

Patrick Ogwang Obura, an aspirant for the Oyam South constituency, cautioned fellow aspirants against sectarianism and the use of vulgar language during the campaign period. He emphasised the need for a clean and respectful campaign, urging unity among party members.

Ogwang also indicated that he had already begun his campaign efforts, citing concerns that the constituency had been neglected.

Meanwhile, Nommy Otyeno, the Speaker of the Oyam District Council and an NRM aspirant for Oyam South, urged fellow aspirants not to exploit voters, likening them to “fish in a lake.” He emphasised the need for unity and fairness within the party.

Wilbert Otala, a leading aspirant for Oyam North, stated that the meeting had solidified his position as the frontrunner. He expressed his determination to visit over 600 villages to seek support. Otala also urged his fellow aspirants to refrain from undermining each other through insults.

Benson Dila, the Oyam district LC5 Chairman and an NRM member, advised aspirants who are unwilling to support the eventual flag bearer to step down before the primary election and contest as independent candidates.

Loyce Bless Ajok Otim, an aspirant for the NRM flag in the District Woman MP race, assured Oyam district NRM Executive Members of her victory in the upcoming general election. She urged fellow aspirants to rally behind her, emphasising her confidence in winning the primary election.

Among the other aspirants present for the District Woman MP seat were Susan Apilli Okech, Proscovia Acayo, Stella Anyango, and Jane Francise Acilo.

Philips Ogile Jakayo, the Oyam District NRM spokesperson, called for unity, peace, and love during the campaign period. He urged all aspirants to reconcile and work together after the primaries, regardless of the election outcome.

NRM District Chairman Onena Jaspher expressed concern that Oyam currently lacks NRM parliamentary representation. He emphasised that party leadership should recognise those who step aside, as they are still valuable leaders.

Jacklyn Adong, the NRM registrar for Oyam district, revealed that there are 1,093 villages, and campaigning will primarily take place through candidate meetings.

Patrick Ocen Ebong, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Oyam district, assured NRM members that their security would be guaranteed during and after the election. He urged the party leadership to practice democracy and transparency in the upcoming by-election.

The Oyam South parliamentary seat, previously held by the Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, who is now contesting in Lira city, has attracted six NRM aspirants: Patrick Ogwang Obura, Nommy Otyeno, Eng. John Robert Ogwara, Okello Denish Ojok and Fred Ojok Oyite.

Meanwhile, Oyam North attracted six aspirants, three of whom, Okello Stephen, Oree Apollo, and Otala Willy Wer, were present at the meeting.

For the LC5 Chairperson position, only Benson Walter Dila Oyuku attended, while Patrick Ogwal Ojok was represented by the Speaker of Iceme subcounty.