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Jimmy Akena will be opting for President in the coming elections
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Lira East Division MP and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) leader, Jimmy Akena, recently announced his intention to run for the presidency in 2026. This declaration has stirred political activity in his constituency and across the Lango sub-region. As Akena shifts his focus to the presidency, nine contenders have already begun eyeing his seat.
Akena’s presidential ambitions were clearly stated during the burial of UPC supporter Ignatius Okello Waata in Busia. This move has sparked political discussions, particularly regarding Akena’s complex relationship with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). While Akena leads the UPC, his wife, Gender Minister Betty Amongi, maintains close ties with the NRM, further complicating the political landscape in Lira.
Lira City Mayor George Okello Ayo
As Akena steps away from his Lira East Division seat, nine candidates have emerged as potential successors. These include Lira City Mayor George Okello Ayo, James Ocen, William Onyanga, Mike Omonya, Isaac Apenyo, Apollo Onyango, Rolex Akena Ogwal, Patrick Aroma, and Presidential Advisor Francis Okello Opio. The UPC hopefuls—Ocen, Apenyo, Onyanga, and Okello Ayo—will vie for the party’s nomination, while Akena Ogwal, Onyango, and Opio are expected to compete for the NRM ticket.
UPC officials believe Akena’s influence in the Lango sub-region will play a significant role in the upcoming elections, as the party seeks to strengthen its support base. However, the NRM sees Akena’s departure from Lira East as an opportunity to gain ground in the constituency.
Voters in Lira East Division face several pressing issues, including poor road conditions, inadequate healthcare, and insufficient clean water. The upcoming election will likely hinge on which candidate can best address these concerns. As the race heats up, the political future of Lira East Division remains uncertain, with both UPC and NRM gearing up for a fierce battle in 2026.
