By Mike Rwothomio | Zoomer Politics

Opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) coordinators and supporters in Zombo District have intensified calls for peaceful political engagement as the country gears up for the January 15, 2026, presidential and parliamentary elections.

Amid escalating campaign activities nationwide, NUP leaders rallied party faithful at Alengukuma Cell in Central Ward, Paidha Town Council, on January 9, urging voters to act as agents of peace during the fiercely competitive electoral period.

Sam Rwothomio, the NUP flag-bearer for Paidha Town Council LCIII chairperson, emphasized the need for non-violent mobilization, stating, "We the Alur people are known for being peaceful. As we exercise our democratic mandate, let's remain peaceful and reject violence."

District NUP coordinator Tina Omaka, who double as flag-bearer for female Councillor for Paidha town council, echoed the slogan of "hope and change," advocating for the election of competent leaders capable of delivering improvements in health services, road infrastructure, and education to transform Zombo District.

The opposition party has fielded candidates across key positions, including District Woman MP, councillors, and LCIII chairpersons, placing itself as a strong challenger to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the forthcoming polls.

Zombo District, long considered an NRM stronghold, is witnessing heightened multi-party competition with the emergence of prominent independent candidates adding intensity to several races.

In Okoro County, veteran politician and former Energy State Minister Eng. Simon D'Ujanga, running as an independent, is challenging incumbent NRM MP Gabriel Okumu in a crowded field that includes contenders Innocent Onega, Sunday Omirambe, and Vincent Ocaya.

The District Woman MP contest features a fierce battle between NRM incumbent Esther Afoyoccan, independent Topista Acamfua, Democratic Party (DP)'s Sarah Adong, NUP's Oyuru Scolaly, and independent Gladies Ngamita.

In Ora County, incumbent Songa Biyika Lawrence faces opposition from Northern Uganda State Minister Freedom Kwiocwiny and PFF's Collins Jakony.

NUP's Omaka rallied supporters, declaring, "We are calling for leaders who can develop our area. It is up to us to bring the change we deserve by peacefully exercising our voting rights on January 15. Let's seek the umbrella symbol and vote for progress."

District authorities have expressed readiness for credible polls. Assistant Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Bruno Mananu assured during a recent radio talk show that security measures are in place for a successful electoral process.

Zombo RDC Festus Ayikobua made similar remarks at a police pass-out ceremony in Paidha, reinforcing commitments to peaceful and orderly elections.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa, your number one grassroot information hub