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Karooro attending Annet's victory function at Kainamo Primary School
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By Our Reporter
Bushenyi – The Senior Presidential Advisor on Public Relations, Canon Mary Karooro Okurut, has commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his unwavering commitment to empowering women and promoting peace in Uganda. Speaking on Saturday during a victory celebration for Annet Bakundaine Birora, the newly elected NRM Chairperson for Ibaare Sub-county in Bushenyi District, Karooro praised the President's consistent efforts in advancing gender equality and supporting the girl child.
“President Museveni has been deliberate in empowering women and championing their rights. His support has been instrumental in encouraging women to take up leadership roles and participate in national development,” Karooro said.
Annet Biroora became the first woman NRM Chairperson for Ibaare Sub-county in Bushenyi District
The celebration, held at Kainamo Primary School in Kainano Parish, drew hundreds of supporters and local leaders who came to honor Birora’s victory—a historic win that makes her the only woman elected as NRM Chairperson at the sub-county level in the entire Ankole sub-region.
Karooro said Birora’s election not only demonstrates her leadership abilities but also symbolizes the growing impact of women in Ugandan politics.
“Today we celebrate not just a victory, but a symbol of hope and progress. Annet’s success is proof that when women are given opportunities, they rise and lead with excellence,” she said.
Karooro expressed deep personal pride in Birora’s rise to leadership, describing her as both an inspiration and a close member of her inner circle.
“She is not just my personal assistant; she is family,” Karooro remarked. “I met Annet in 2004 during my campaign for the Bushenyi Woman MP seat. She was a young girl with an exceptional gift for reciting heroic praise poems. Her voice, confidence, and energy captivated me.”
Karooro Okurut waves to the locals at the function
From that encounter, Karooro took Birora under her wing and began mentoring her in leadership and administrative work. She revealed that she trained her in records management, transforming her into a dependable and organized individual.
“She is disciplined, meticulous, and committed. I saw the potential in her and decided to walk with her closely. Today, I am proud that she has not only made a name for herself but is also raising the flag of women's leadership high,” Karooro said.
She described Birora as a God-fearing woman whose integrity has earned her the trust of the community. Karooro called on NRM supporters to remain humble in victory and to refrain from divisive rhetoric.
“Let us not insult or look down on those we defeated. Let us unite and work together for the development of our party and our communities,” she urged.
Annet Birora in a yellow shirt waves to her supporters
She further appealed to leaders, elders, and mentors to invest in the next generation, particularly young women. “Uganda’s future depends on nurturing the potential of our youth. We must support and guide them so they can contribute meaningfully to the transformation of this country,” Karooro added.
In her address to supporters, Annet Birora pledged to use her networks to lobby for the development of Ibaare Sub-county. “I have many friends, including Hon. Karooro, and I will use those connections to bring development to this sub-county,” Birora said.
Birora’s victory marked the end of Byakwaga Sabastiano’s ten-year tenure as NRM Chairperson of the sub-county. She won the election with 74 votes, defeating Byakwaga, who garnered 44 votes.
She also condemned the use of money in politics, taking a swipe at her opponent.
“The use of money in campaigns weakens the strength of our party. We must win people’s support through service and integrity, not bribery,” she said.
Torch Media Africa
