Battle for Lira City: Tensions Rise as Aspiring Candidate Faces Backlash from Own Party

LIRA CITY, UGANDA – As the political landscape in Lira City heats up ahead of the 2026 elections, divisions have emerged among the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party members and aspiring candidates. A group of NRM carders has expressed open discontent with Sarah Awor Angweri's decision to challenge the incumbent Lira City woman MP, Dr. Jane Ruth Acheng Ocero, a prominent figure in the region’s politics. The increasing friction is not only a test of loyalty within the ruling party but also a reflection of the evolving dynamics of political competition in the Lango sub-region.

Tensions flared during a heated meeting at Lira Hotel, where senior NRM carders, including Goerge Okot, Moses Opio, and Solomon Okello, voiced their collective dissent against Awor's candidacy, labeling her a “political opportunist.” Awor, an independent female workers' councilor, has publicly declared her intention to vie for the parliamentary seat under the NRM umbrella, a move that has been met with staunch opposition from her own party members.

NRM carders' meeting at Lira Hotel 

"The fundamental duty of NRM carders is to rally around individuals who share our ideological beliefs,” Okot stated. “We will not extend any political backing to Awor Angweri. Her decision to run against Dr. Acheng, who has proven herself to be a game changer for Lira City, is unacceptable.” Okot further urged Betty Amongi, the current MP of Oyam South and a candidate competing against Acheng, to reconsider her ambitions and focus on her current constituency.

Former NRM chairperson Moses Opio echoed these sentiments, asserting, “Both Amongi and Awor Angweri are anti-development agents in Lango. We must unite to support our strong candidate, Dr. Acheng, who has significantly contributed to our community.” Opio's remarks reflect a growing anxiety among party members regarding the potential for divided loyalties and weakened political support for Acheng, whose achievements in office have solidified her reputation as a reliable leader.

In contrast, Okello Solomon reiterated the carders’ commitment to thwart any competition against Acheng, citing her numerous contributions to the region. “Dr. Acheng has been instrumental in development for Lira City, and we must protect her position,” he asserted. Okot also downplayed Awor’s potential threat, suggesting that her candidacy was more about seeking attention than presenting a serious challenge to Acheng’s incumbency.

In a media briefing on November 20, 2024, Awor presented her vision for Lira City, emphasizing unity, development, and empowerment. “I am prepared to face Dr. Acheng and Betty Amongi in this pivotal political contest,” she declared. “My candidacy is driven by a desire to serve the people of Lira City and to bring about meaningful change.” This assertion positions Awor as a contender willing to challenge the status quo, despite the backlash from her fellow carders.

Sarah Awor Angweri holding a media conference at Lira Hotel on 20th November 2024

Political analysts have cautioned those vying for positions against Dr. Acheng to adequately prepare, as her track record suggests she has a strong chance of retaining her seat in Parliament. Research indicates that Acheng ranks among the MPs in Lango most likely to secure re-election, a factor that complicates the ambitions of Awor and others.

The backdrop of this political discord is compounded by the endorsement of Dr. Acheng by over 100 senior NRM carders, all dressed in party colors and bearing her portrait. This public show of support reinforces her position as the party's sole candidate for the Lira City woman parliamentary seat, further isolating her challengers.

NRM carders dressed in Yellow T-shirts bearing Acheng's portrait 

As the 2026 general elections approach, the political atmosphere in Lira City is charged with rivalry and strategic maneuvering. The outcomes of this contest will not only determine the future of the candidates involved but will also shape the political landscape of Lango for years to come. With the NRM grappling with internal conflicts and emerging challengers, the next few months promise to be pivotal for all stakeholders involved in Lira City's political narrative.

In conclusion, the unfolding events reflect a microcosm of the broader dynamics at play within Uganda's political framework, highlighting issues of loyalty, representation, and the aspirations of women in leadership roles. Only time will tell how these tensions will resolve as the candidates prepare for the looming electoral battle ahead.