Acholi NRM Publicity Secretaries Hold Retreat in Kitgum Ahead of 2026 General Elections

17 September 2025, 5:48 pm

By Otim Moses

The Acholi sub-region NRM Publicity Secretariat has held a strategic retreat in Kitgum Municipality aimed at strengthening party structures, promoting unity, and mobilizing support ahead of the 2026 general elections.

The retreat, held at Bomah Hotel in Kitgum, brought together publicity secretaries from all eight districts in the Acholi sub-region under the campaign slogan “Protecting the Grain.” The meeting marked the beginning of a region-wide mobilization drive, rallying support for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidates — from presidential to local council level.

Speaking at the event, Hon. Oyet Simon Agwani, Chairperson of the Acholi NRM Publicity Secretaries, said the retreat was organized to promote unity, resolve internal disputes, and strengthen loyalty within the party. He urged members who lost during party primaries to support the official NRM flag bearers for the sake of the party’s success in 2026.

“This retreat is meant to create unity and build strong relationships among members. We call for discipline and loyalty to the party,” Mr. Agwani stated.

He condemned party members who chose to run as independents after losing in the primaries, saying such actions go against the principles of the NRM. He emphasized that such individuals will be handled in accordance with the party’s disciplinary procedures.

Agwani also highlighted that the publicity team will actively campaign for all NRM candidates, particularly those in government ministries and local leadership. However, he clarified that they will not campaign for members of the opposition, even if they hold official positions, as the focus remains on strengthening the NRM’s grip on leadership.

He further called on the public to vote for NRM candidates in order to continue benefiting from government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), infrastructure development, and improved health services in the region.

Hon. Okello Tom Richard, the Vice Chairperson of Acholi Sub-region Publicity and also the NRM Publicity Secretary for Kitgum District, echoed the same sentiments. He said the retreat was centered on ensuring party victory and discipline.

“The purpose of this retreat is to strategize for a clear win for NRM in 2026. We are confident of securing more than 80% of the votes in the Acholi sub-region,” Hon. Okello said.

He called for cooperation and unity among NRM members as they enter the critical campaign period, emphasizing that working together is essential for a landslide victory in the upcoming elections.