3President Museveni emphasized that the political strategy of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party is rooted in science rather than guesswork.
Speaking at a political rally in Iceme Town Council during the final stages of campaigning for the forthcoming Oyam North by-election, President Museveni expressed his support for the NRM flag bearer, Mr. Samuel Okello Engola, and discussed the party’s principles.
The by-election, scheduled for July 6, was triggered by the vacancy left after the tragic death of former Minister of State for Labour, Employment, and Industrial Relations, Col (Rtd) Charles Okello Engola Macodwogo.
President Museveni highlighted the importance of leaders and peace in the region, urging the people of Oyam North to choose the right leaders who can guide them effectively.
During the rally, a number of individuals reportedly defected from opposition parties such as the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) to join the ruling NRM party.
Notable defectors included Mr. George Ojwang Opota, a UPC loyalist and Prime Minister of Tekwaro Lango cultural institution, and Mr. George Rashid Opio, a former speaker of Lira District and member of the FDC.
Oyam District, consisting of 16 administrative units, 74 parishes, and 1,094 villages, has two political constituencies: Oyam South and Oyam North.
The area has a population of approximately 553,000, with around 187,000 registered voters, according to Mr. Benson Dila, the district chairman.
President Museveni also mentioned that he was not seeking personal gains from the government, as he already possessed resources and livestock.
He urged the electorate to elect Okello Engola, highlighting his connection to his late father and his potential to continue his father’s unfinished work.
Overall, the president emphasized the importance of science-based politics and the need for capable leaders to guide the community in the right direction.