MP Obong Pledges to Prioritize Education
MP Obong campaigning at Kakoge 'C' Cell in Lira City West Division
By Patrick Okino
Soderick Vincent Obong Eyit, the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) flag-bearer and incumbent Member of Parliament for Lira City West Division, has pledged to make education and vocational training for school dropouts a top priority in his next term.
While campaigning at Kakoge ‘C’ Cell, MP Obong reaffirmed his commitment to supporting formal education, particularly for orphans and vulnerable children, noting that his efforts will be strengthened if re-elected in the 2026 general elections.
“As the area Member of Parliament, my support will continue because I know the importance of education and what it takes to educate a child. For those unable to pursue formal education, I will support them to acquire skills,” he said.
He also criticized Lira City authorities for what he described as acts of sabotage, accusing them of frustrating his attempts to rehabilitate dilapidated roads in the area.
MP Obong is competing against three challengers: Eddy Morris Ogweng of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Denis Blair Okello Odongo (Independent), and Jimmy Awany Cingmalo (Independent).
Lira attained city status in 2020 and was divided into three constituencies—Lira City East, Lira City West, and Lira City.
Lira City East is currently represented by MP Jimmy Akena, who also serves as UPC party president, while Dr. Jane Aceng of the NRM represents Lira City. Akena has opted out of the 2026 race, paving the way for James Ocen (UPC), Denis Alyela Omodi (NRM), and independent candidate Isaac Apenyo to compete for the seat.
MP Obong urged voters to abandon NRM candidates in the upcoming elections and instead support UPC flag-bearers.
He further pledged to improve the health sector by adding two more ambulances to the one he procured two years ago when he joined Parliament. One ambulance will be stationed in the former Lira Sub-county and the other at Ojwina, the headquarters of City West Division.
He said UPC has historically championed community interests and implemented policies aimed at reducing poverty, disease, and ignorance.
Emmanuel Obong Opeto, who is contesting for mayor of Lira City West Division, said he previously ran in 2021 but was unsuccessful. He urged residents to give him their support this time.
Mike Ogwang, a candidate for mayor of Lira City, said that during his earlier tenure as mayor, he prioritized the welfare of market vendors and other business groups. He accused the current leadership of treating vendors like criminals by confiscating their goods and subjecting them to harassment and arrests. If elected, he promised to serve all residents equally and without discrimination.
