The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) leadership in the Lango Sub-region has officially endorsed their party president, Jimmy Akena, as the opposition’s flag bearer to challenge President Museveni in the 2026 general elections.
Akena, the son of former two-time president Milton Obote and the current Member of Parliament for Lira East, was unveiled as the party’s presidential candidate during a regional conference held in Lira City on Friday, April 18, 2025.
Party leaders and district chairpersons from across Lango declared their support, describing Akena as a symbol of hope and restoration for the country.
Geoffrey Ocen, the LC5 chairperson of Amolatar District, stated, “On behalf of UPC members and all peace-loving Ugandans, I proudly endorse Jimmy Akena Obote for the presidency. He is the one we believe can restore order and prosperity to this nation.”
Ocen emphasized that Akena is the only candidate capable of ensuring equitable access to Uganda’s natural resources, especially for communities living along Lake Kyoga. He also highlighted Akena’s potential to secure compensation for victims of the LRA insurgency in northeastern Uganda, noting the loss of livestock that once served as economic lifelines for families.
“In the past, our livestock was our bank,” Ocen said. “If you needed school fees or medical care, you could sell an animal. But we lost all that. With Akena’s leadership, we believe we can rebuild and reclaim our dignity.”
Geoffrey Alex Ogwal, the Kwania District LC5 chairperson and fellow UPC member, appealed to Ugandans — including supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM)—to rally behind Akena.
“We acknowledge that President Museveni has made contributions to the nation, and we thank him for his service,” Ogwal said. “However, we believe it is time for new leadership. Akena is not here to seek revenge but to carry on where Museveni leaves off and build a better Uganda.”
He criticized the current allocation of resources, pointing out that local governments receive less than 9% of the national budget despite being the cornerstone of service delivery. He also cited inequalities in the implementation of government programs such as the Parish Development Model, calling for more equitable and impactful investments through Akena’s leadership.
“What Uganda needs now is a leader for the common citizen — someone who ensures access to healthcare, promotes peace and reconciliation, and unites the country. That leader is Jimmy Akena,” Ogwal stated.
UPC national mobilizer William Onyanga added that under Akena, Uganda would embrace a fresh era of democracy and press freedom.
“A vibrant media is essential for socio-economic progress,” Onyanga said. “Only the UPC can guarantee the freedom needed to hold power accountable and tell Uganda’s true development story.”
Chris Ongom, UPC vice chairperson for Oyam District and the Lango region, said the Lira City East party leadership had formally handed over Akena’s candidacy for submission to the UPC National Delegate Conference scheduled for August.
“After thorough consultations and unanimous agreement, we declare Hon. Jimmy James Michael Akena Obote as our sole presidential candidate in the upcoming conference,” Ongom said. “His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to party ideals make him the best choice to lead Uganda into a new era of unity and progress.”
