Africa-Press – Uganda. The recent creation of three new districts and a city out of the existing Tororo District is already reshaping the region’s political landscape, as aspirants adjust their ambitions to fit the emerging administrative units ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Former Ambassador Phibby Awere Otaala is among the high-profile figures shifting political focus. Initially targeting the Tororo Woman MP seat, Otaala has now set her sights on the newly formed Tororo City Woman MP position.
“This is a long-awaited city, and I am declaring that I must become the first Woman MP to serve here. I have been waiting for this, and I want to thank the President for taking this decision,” Otaala said, expressing her confidence and readiness for the race.
Similarly, Tororo District Speaker Betty Charia has announced her intention to contest for the Woman MP seat for the newly created Mulanda District. Having previously served as a district councillor, Charia believes her extensive experience in local governance has equipped her for higher political responsibilities.
“My experience of chairing council for all this long has taught me a lot. I can deliberate for my people without fear. So, I’m going for that seat,” she declared.
While many politicians are celebrating the administrative reorganisation, political analysts warn of the underlying complexities. Juma Seyyid, a seasoned political commentator, argues that the new political boundaries will disrupt the usual campaign strategies.
“Previously, many politicians were riding on the promise of district division to gain political mileage. Now, they must find new techniques to attract votes, or they risk losing ground,” Seyyid explained.
He also notes that the timing of the new districts’ creation—just under a year to the next general election—could significantly favor the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.
“The creation of new administrative units here favours President Museveni. It’s just a matter of time,” he added.
In the 2021 general election, President Museveni narrowly edged out his main competitor, Robert Kyagulanyi, the NUP presidential candidate, in Tororo District after garnering 86,248 votes, while Kyagulanyi received 54,556. The results were widely attributed to delays in splitting the district, which led to poor service delivery and growing voter dissatisfaction.
With the division now implemented, analysts and party insiders are optimistic that the NRM could, for the first time, secure more than 70% of the vote in the region.
As the 2026 elections draw nearer, all eyes are on Tororo to see how the new political dynamics will unfold in this reconfigured landscape.
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