Lango Political Earthquake: Six Sitting MPs Ousted in NRM Primaries

In a surprising turn of events, six sitting Lango MPs have been unseated in the fiercely contested National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries, forming a potential seismic shift in the region’s political dynamics. The ousted incumbents are:

James Olobo “Dubai” – Kioga North

First-term MP and controversial NRM loyalist, Olobo secured his 2021 seat with 14,021 votes

However, his tenure was marred by constituency dissatisfaction farmers complained of “invisibility,” and he faced criticism for diverting government tractors to personal use. His weak presence in parliamentary debates jokingly likened to “samosa and coffee” contributions in corridors further angered voters.

Tony Ayo – Kwania County

Ayo, New NRM chief whip and three-term MP, faced backlash for alleged partisan misconduct—two violent campaign events raised concerns about intimidation and chaos. He had recently defended MPs against corruption charges, but this did nothing to calm local anxieties about his confrontational style.

Moses Ogwal Goli – Dokolo North

Goli, first elected in 2021 after serving as Director of Private Sector Development, was active in agriculture policy promoting cassava feedlot technology and chairing key East African Community committees. Nonetheless, his sustained absence from joint campaigns and presence in only select constituencies sparked criticism from constituents.

Dorcus Acen – Alebtong Woman MP

Acen, a former independent MP now in her second term, pushed progressive bills such as marriage reforms and advocating for women’s health but is losing ground to challenger Dr Mercy Lakisa, who is gaining traction. Sources note that voters are now craving new leadership after nearly a decade under Acen .

Judith Alyek – Kole Woman MP

Alyek, two-term MP since 2016, has chaired the Lango Parliamentary Group and driven education and maternal health initiatives. Despite her grassroots reputation, voter fatigue and emerging local leaders with fresh agendas have chipped away at her support base .

Christine Akello (“Gwok Adako”) – Erute North

Akello, popularly known as “Gwok Adako,” gained her first-term MP seat in 2021 and has been vocal on agriculture, HIV/AIDS, and spoiling access road projects. However, opposition within her district is growing: a recent video captured protesters accusing her of disrupting local NRM campaigns, and rivals accuse her of harassment and election disruption.