Erute South MP Hopeful ENGOLA Gains as Community Demands Accountability from Incumbent Leaders during A burial

By Jimmy Olot 

Lira District, Uganda| The Luo Natives: In Erute South, a significant change is taking place as local residents are now calling for accountability from their current political leaders. 

This was evident during the funeral of prominent NRM member Bonny Oteng in Itek Sub-county, Lira District, where they voiced their dissatisfaction over lack of development, particularly in the areas of roads and education.

 An elder from Erute South, David Tema, raised the issue, stating that the community is suffering from poor road conditions as if they had not elected leaders in the last election.

“If this situation doesn’t improve, we will not re-elect any of you,” he warned.

Alex Oremo Alot, the former district chairman of Lira, also expressed his concerns, urging current leaders to ensure fair distribution of services.

In the midst of these issues, Hon. Engola has emerged as a symbol of hope for the community, advocating for transparency and good governance.

According to the aggrieved residents, for years, the people of Erute South have felt neglected, with no significant development projects delivered despite numerous promises made during election campaigns.

Roads remain unpaved, schools lack funding, and healthcare services are insufficient. 

The community's frustration has reached a critical point, and they are no longer willing to accept unfulfilled promises. Derrick Odongo, a resident of Itek Sub-county, shared that despite being in the opposition, he supports Hon. Engola for the parliamentary seat in 2026 due to these pressing issues.

Another voter, a dedicated NRM supporter, expressed a desire for Hon. Engola to go unopposed in the NRM primaries in 2026 to allow him to focus on the opposition in the final election.

During the burial of Bonny Oteng on Tuesday, who was the husband of Barr Sub-county NRM chairperson, Engola addressed the mourners and urged politicians to refrain from making hollow promises, emphasizing the importance of truth and accountability. 

He also presented a cash contribution of 1 million from the office of the NRM Secretary General, Hon. Richard Todwong, who praised the late Oteng as a dedicated and strong supporter of the party.

Hon. Engola, who is gaining significant backing from his community as the 2026 elections approach, challenged opposition leaders who claim that the NRM is known for making empty promises at funerals for political gain.

 He requested the protocol team to allow him to invite families he has helped, to demonstrate to opposition members and local leaders that the NRM is committed to principles of truth and accountability.

Leaving the opposition speechless at the burial, Hon. Engola warned them against spreading propaganda about the NRM party and its leaders during community events. 

“I want to remind you that the politics of propaganda is ineffective in this era. Always speak the truth; don’t just grab a microphone to slander others,” he firmly advised.