Six MPs Out, New Blood In As NRM Faces A Defining Moment Ahead Of 2026
The winds of political change have swept through Lango Sub-region, leaving behind a trail of shock, celebration, and reflection. In one of the most dramatic outcomes of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries so far, six sitting Members of Parliament — including some of the region’s most prominent political figures — have lost their party flags to newcomers.
Among those unseated is Judith Alyek, the chairperson of the Lango Parliamentary Group, who now joins the list of heavyweights unexpectedly shown the door by voters within their own party.
Others who fell in the primaries include:
- Tonny Ayo (MP, Kwania and Chairperson of the ICT Parliamentary Committee)
- Christine Akello (Erute North)
- Dorcas Acen (Alebtong Woman MP)
- James Olobo (Kyoga North)
- Moses Ogwal (Dokolo North)
Their losses have sparked conversations and, in some quarters, controversy. While some analysts point to the hunger for new leadership, several of the defeated candidates have cited voter bribery and electoral irregularities as key reasons behind their downfall.
While some recover from their wounds, Lira City was alive with celebration as the NRM primaries concluded with clear winners and a renewed sense of momentum ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In a powerful show of support, Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng was declared unopposed, solidifying her role as the party’s flag bearer for the Lira City Woman MP seat. Speaking shortly after her declaration, Aceng who also serves as the NRM Chairperson for Lira City urged party loyalists to remain vigilant.
“We must not allow ourselves to be distracted by propaganda. Our mission is clear, reclaim Lira City,” she said.
The NRM’s strategy is clear: win back ground in a city currently dominated by the opposition Uganda People’s Congress (UPC).
In Lira City East, Denis Alyela Omodi beat high-profile rivals, including Presidential Advisor Francis Okello Opio and businessman Ogwal Umar Kanjule. In his victory speech, Alyela extended an olive branch to his former opponents. “This is a win for the party, not just me. Let’s join hands and rebuild,” he said.
In Lira City West, Eddy Morris Ogweng emerged victorious after defeating Dr. Moses Ogonya. Ogweng promised to dismantle the opposition’s longstanding grip on the division, pledging to bridge gaps and refocus the constituency on development.
Lira City remains a political battleground. Currently, it is represented by two opposition MPs — Hon. Jimmy James Michael Akena and Hon. Sedrick Obong Eyit both from the UPC. Dr. Aceng remains the lone NRM MP from the city.
With fresh energy from new flag bearers and seasoned voices like Aceng leading the charge, the NRM hopes to reclaim dominance in Lira. But with opposition forces still strong, and lingering questions about electoral integrity, the battle ahead promises to be anything but predictable.
What do you think about the changes in Lango’s political landscape? Are voters ready for new voices, or are the losses of experienced MPs a warning sign? Join the conversation below.
