Ex-Tourism Minister Akaki Ayumu Hails Talib Okabo's Grassroots Mobilization, Calls for National Recognition

Ex-Tourism Minister Akaki Ayumu Hails Talib Okabo's Grassroots Mobilization, Calls for National Recognition

APAC DISTRICT, Uganda — Veteran politician and former Maruzi County Member of Parliament, Hon. Jovino Akaki Ayumu, has praised Apac District NRM Chairperson, Hon. Talib Okabo, describing him as a committed grassroots mobilizer whose efforts significantly contributed to the National Resistance Movement's (NRM) strong performance in the 2026 general elections.

Speaking to our reporter by telephone, Akaki who is also a former Minister of Tourism was responding to recent online discussions commending Okabo, popularly known as "Nyeko Bali Kare," as a dedicated party leader deserving national recognition.

Akaki, who described himself as one of the long-serving promoters and supporters of the NRM in the Lango Sub-region, said he personally witnessed Okabo's commitment throughout the election period.

"I saw him sacrifice his time, energy, and personal resources to mobilize support for the NRM. He worked tirelessly, coordinating activities, planning campaigns, and moving day and night to ensure the party achieved victory. Although he worked with many other party members, his contribution was exceptional," Akaki said.

He added that leaders who demonstrate such commitment should be appreciated and motivated to inspire future generations of party mobilizers.

 "People who dedicate themselves to strengthening the party deserve encouragement. Recognizing committed leaders motivates others to serve with the same spirit," he added.

Akaki's remarks come at a time when President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has continued to recognize individuals who have made notable contributions to Uganda's political, social, and economic development through national medals and other state honours.

According to NRM members in Apac District, Okabo has played an important role in strengthening the party's grassroots structures by mobilizing communities, recruiting new supporters, and encouraging participation in government development programmes.

Party supporters credit his leadership with helping expand the NRM's political influence in the district, contributing to the election of several party candidates at parliamentary and local government levels during recent elections.

Supporters also say Okabo has consistently promoted government wealth creation initiatives, youth empowerment programmes, and community engagement, earning him recognition as one of the party's active mobilizers in the Lango Sub-region.

Okabo's political involvement dates back to the early 2000s when the opposition Uganda People's Congress (UPC) enjoyed overwhelming support across much of the Lango Sub-region. During that period, he was among a small group of young leaders who openly campaigned for the NRM despite the party's limited popularity in the region.

Over the years, he rose through the party ranks to become the NRM Chairperson for Apac District. Supporters attribute part of the party's growing electoral success in the district to sustained grassroots mobilization and organizational efforts led by local party leaders, including Okabo.

Apac District has historically been regarded as a stronghold of the UPC and is closely associated with Uganda's former President, the late Dr. Apollo Milton Obote, who founded the party. Political analysts note that the district's political landscape has gradually evolved over the years, with the NRM making notable electoral gains through sustained mobilization, party organization, and engagement with local communities.

While supporters credit Okabo with playing a significant role in this transformation, the shift in political support is widely viewed as the result of multiple factors, including broader party strategies, changing voter preferences, and the collective efforts of NRM leaders and supporters across the district.