NRM Ends 25 Years Rule Of Opposition In Apac: Meet Nekyon Isaac Emma Odongo, A Man Behind the Struggle

Apac District, Uganda — The 2026 general elections in Apac have marked a significant turning point in the political landscape of the region, with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) achieving an overwhelming victory. For the first time in history, NRM secured approximately 85% of the votes in Apac, solidifying its dominance in what was traditionally a stronghold of opposition parties, notably the Uganda People's Congress (UPC). 

Once known as the home of Uganda’s former President and UPC leader, Dr. Apollo Milton Obote (RIP), Apac has seen a dramatic political shift. The majority of elected leaders, including Members of Parliament and local officials, now represent the NRM ticket. Behind this impressive electoral performance stands a young and dynamic mobilizer—Nekyon Isaac Odongo—whose relentless efforts and strategic campaigning are credited with transforming the political tide in Apac.

The Man Behind the Movement

Nekyon Isaac Emma Odongo is a notable figure in Apac’s political scene. A former NRM parliamentary candidate for Apac Municipality, Odongo did not win a parliamentary seat but played a pivotal role in galvanizing support for the NRM and President Museveni. His grassroots mobilization tactics, youthful energy, and innovative outreach earned him widespread admiration among young voters and community members.

According to political analysts, Nekyon Odongo's success lies in his unique approach to political mobilization. He effectively engaged youth groups, printed thousands of yellow T-shirts bearing the NRM and Museveni’s images, and used street posters and billboards to create a vibrant political atmosphere. His efforts included painting streets with yellow posters, mobilizing youth rallies, and reaching out to opposition supporters to rally them to the NRM cause.

In addition to street campaigns, Odongo's team strategically used vehicles painted in NRM colors to traverse the district, amplifying their message and creating a strong visual presence. His ability to communicate directly with the youth and opposition supporters alike helped to foster a sense of unity and support for the ruling party.

Despite his mass mobilization efforts, Odongo faced challenges, notably from some NRM sympathizers who supported independent opposition candidate Patrick Ocan whom was dancing NRM tune against him, Nevertheless, the NRM’s victory in Apac was decisive, with the party securing key parliamentary seats, including Hon. Betty Engola as Woman MP, who defeated her UPC opponent Susan Engola, and Bernard Otim Odoc as MP for Maruzi North.

The district also saw NRM candidates sweep local government positions, including the mayoral seat and district chairpersonship, alongside a majority of councilors—all aligned with NRM.

 About Nekyon Isaac Emma Odongo

Nekyon Isaac Emma Odongo is an international private security expert with extensive experience working in conflict zones across Afghanistan, Iraq, Turkey, Somaliland, and Sudan. He hails from the family of Adoko Nekyon, a prominent Ugandan statesman and brother to Dr. Apollo Milton Obote. 

His background includes serving as a security contractor, and he is currently a member of the Revolutionary Guard and Patriotic League of Uganda, an organization reportedly headed by General Muhozi Kainerugaba, emphasizing his deep involvement in national security initiatives.

In his post-election address, Nekyon Odongo praised the Apac community for their support, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the gains made and advocating for continued development. He expressed hope that the significant votes cast for President Museveni and the NRM will translate into tangible benefits for the district, including infrastructure and social services.

Nekyon Isaac Emma Odongo’s remarkable mobilization efforts have indelibly changed Apac’s political landscape, marking a new era of support for the NRM. With strong backing from the youth and community, the district now looks forward to increased development and progress under the leadership of President Museveni and the NRM government.