Discover the Hidden Story Behind Ishaa Otto Amiza: Oyam South Constituency MP Hopeful's Rare Profile

Kampala, Uganda: Born and raised in Alidi village, Loro Sub-County, Oyam District, within the Lango sub-region, Ishaa Otto Amiza has established himself as one of the most unyielding civil and political activists of our time. A principled and defiant man with unwavering integrity, he has tirelessly championed the cause of the common man through bold advocacy and personal sacrifice.

While affiliated with the Uganda People's Congress (UPC) since 2001, Ishaa is renowned for his fiercely independent stance on matters of justice, governance, and constitutionalism—often challenging the status quo to uphold democratic ideals.

Early Life and Education

Ishaa Otto Amiza’s journey began in Alidi Primary School, progressing through Lango College, Aboke High School, and Ngai SSS (Uganda Certificate of Education). 

During his secondary education, he demonstrated leadership and resilience, despite facing suspension thrice for leading protests advocating for students’ rights and fair treatment—an early indicator of his unwavering commitment to justice.

He pursued higher education at Uganda Polytechnic Kyambogo (2000–2002), earning a Diploma in Water Engineering. Later, he attained a Bachelor's Degree in Procurement and Logistics Management from Islamic University in Kampala (IUIU). He has also completed numerous short courses at certificate level, broadening his expertise in development and governance.

Political and Civic Engagement

Parliamentary Service & Leadership

- Member of Parliament, Oyam County South (2007–2011): 

- Succeeded the late Dr. Yefusa Okullo Epak, representing his constituency with dedication.

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- Committee Membership:

Served on key parliamentary committees including Physical Infrastructure, ICT, and Equal Opportunities—highlighting his focus on infrastructure development, digital inclusion, and social equity.

- Youth Representation:

 UPC Parliamentary Candidate, Youth MP for Northern Uganda (2006).

- Party Leadership:

 National Secretary for Mobilization (2015–2020), appointed by Dr. Olara Otunnu; and served as a UPC representative to the Democratic Alliance (TDA) National Candidates Committee.

- De Facto Secretary General of UPC:

 Under the leadership of Joseph Bossa and Peter Walubiri, he played a crucial role in party organization.

- Vice Chairperson, People's Front for Transition (PFT): Led by Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, advocating for democratic reforms.

Secretary for Information and Publicity, Greater North Parliamentary Forum.

- Deputy Guild Speaker, Kyambogo University (2000–2001).**

- Chairman, Uganda National Students’ Association (UNSA) – Aboke High School (1992–1994).

Additional Leadership Roles:

- Chairman of the Debating Club at Ngai SSS.

- Facilitator for the NUSAF program under the World Bank, working in Loro-Apac.

- Assistant Lecturer at Uganda Technical College, Lira.

- Hydro Officer with Action Against Hunger-USA during the LRA conflict.

- Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WATSAN) Officer with CESVI-Italy (Apac Chapter).

- Executive Director of Water for Life-Uganda (WAL-Uganda), focusing on water access and sanitation projects.

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 International Engagement & Recognition

- Fact Witness:

Testified at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague during the Dominic Ongwen trial, emphasizing his commitment to justice on a global stage.

- Parliamentary Delegate:

- Represented Uganda at the 48th Commonwealth Day and legislative seminars at Westminster Abbey, UK.

- Global Conferences:

 Participated in the World Conference on Population, Land Management & ICT in Stockholm and Lan Matarriet, Sweden.

- Recognition:His activism and advocacy have earned him respect both locally and internationally, positioning him as a voice for marginalized communities.

Civic and Political Activism

Ishaa Otto Amiza’s activism spans a broad spectrum of social and political issues:

- Leading campaigns for the creation of *Aber District to improve local governance and service delivery.

- Mobilizing protests for the construction of the Lira–Kamdini Road, which resulted in presidential intervention and ongoing infrastructural development.

- Organizing a petition with over 1 million signatures demanding the construction of the Akii Bua Memorial Stadium to honor Uganda’s sports hero.

- Leading peaceful demonstrations against unreliable electricity services, notably those targeting UMEME in Lira, which contributed to the attraction of over 100 factories through reforms.

- Advocating for **clean and safe water**, pressuring NWSC to improve water services across Lira and demanding extension of pipe water coverage from Karuma (NORA) to Oyam and Kole districts.

- Persistently pushing for justice and compensation for victims of violence, including the Amuka militia, IDPs, and victims of land grabbing.

- Successfully rejected plans for the Gulu Constituent College in Lira, prompting a swift reversal.

- Leading the Anti-Age Limit Riots in Lira, facing arrest and detention but later being released.

- Petitioner in the landmark case that nullified the illegal presidency of the UPC, a critical legal victory upheld by all courts of law.

Notable Legal and Investigative Initiatives:

- In 2010, filed a constitutional petition challenging cross-party defections, leading to the disqualification of 78 MPs.

- Continues to demand investigations into land fraud, including the Maruzi Ranch giveaway, Adyeda Group Farm, and illegal land titling in Oyam.

- Currently advocating for investigations into the misuse of funds related to Sino Hydro CSR for General Hospital, illegal land data collection, and corruption in government.

Development and Infrastructure Contributions:

- Spearheaded the campaign for the rehabilitation of the Lira–Kamdini Road and the Ayer–Loro–Bobi Powerline.

- Initiated and oversaw the construction of 27 km of community access roads in Loro, Aber, and Minakulu, named after prominent local leaders.

- Secured funding for the refurbishment of Alidi, Iyanyi, and Amido Primary Schools and supported borehole and spring water projects across multiple sub-counties.

Educational and Community Development:

- Organized conferences to improve Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) performance.

- Secured funds to rehabilitate primary schools and establish computer labs at Loro SS and Atapara SSS.

- Advocated for amendments to the Wildlife Act to protect farmers near national parks.

- Supported local churches and community groups, fostering social cohesion and development.

Conclusion

I have chosen the painful path of resistance because silence is betrayal..." — Ishaa Otto Amiza

His life’s journey stands as a testament to resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice, development, and human rights. Whether in Parliament or on the streets of Lango, he continues to be the voice of the voiceless—defending their rights, demanding accountability, and confronting powerful interests. His unwavering dedication reflects a spirit of sacrifice and hope for a better Uganda and a more just humanity.

The writer is Noble Newtone Odongo