Loyal supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) have rolled out a renewed campaign to reclaim Soroti City, a traditional opposition bastion in the Teso Sub-region.

Since 2006, Soroti has largely remained under the control of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), which has dominated both parliamentary and city council seats. Often referred to as the “heart of the opposition in Teso,” the city has posed a consistent challenge to the NRM’s political influence in the region.

The latest effort to regain ground emerged during a high-level strategic meeting that brought together senior NRM officials, local leaders, and security representatives from across Teso. The session focused on revitalising grassroots mobilisation and aligning structures in preparation for President Yoweri Museveni’s upcoming visit to the sub-region.

NRM National Mobiliser Rosemary Sseninde emphasised the importance of refocusing efforts on Soroti, cautioning party members against underestimating the strength of the opposition. Sseninde reminded participants that Soroti “remains a key base for the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC)” and urged unity and vigorous mobilisation to shift public perception and consolidate support for the NRM and President Museveni.

She condemned the increasing trend of NRM independents, calling it “shameless and driven by personal greed,” and warned that such behaviour weakens the party’s official flag bearers. “Anyone who chooses to contest as an independent ceases to represent the NRM,” Sseninde declared, urging the public to support only officially endorsed party candidates.

She further reiterated that, according to the NRM constitution, any member who runs as an independent forfeits their right to hold office within the party and would face disciplinary measures.

Explaining the purpose of the meeting, Sseninde said, “We came to interact with local leaders, security officials, and NRM structures to prepare for the President’s visit. We must demonstrate that Teso remains a strong pillar of the NRM.” She also applauded President Museveni’s leadership in promoting peace, stability, and economic growth through initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.

Echoing her remarks, NRM Teso Regional Mobiliser Teddy Acham criticised members who defected to run as independents, labelling them “undisciplined and self-centred.” “If you lose in the primaries, you must support the winner,” Acham said. “Those who defy this principle only expose their greed. But they will not divide us; we remain united and loyal to the NRM.” She encouraged humility, teamwork, and loyalty to party structures, citing her own continued commitment despite previously losing in internal contests.

As the President’s advance team finalises arrangements, NRM leaders in Teso have vowed to deliver an energetic and well-organised reception during Museveni’s forthcoming campaign tour.

David Calvin Echodu, NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC) Chairperson for Eastern Uganda and flag bearer for Soroti City West, expressed confidence that the ruling party is regaining momentum in the region. “I am a living example, emerging unopposed in the party primaries without any conflict shows that the people are ready to embrace the NRM,” he said.

Echodu added that renewed unity and strengthened grassroots coordination would be instrumental in reclaiming Soroti from the opposition. “For over a decade, the opposition has thrived here because of internal divisions and poor leadership within our ranks,” he observed. “But we have now resolved to end divisive politics. That shift alone could change the game in Soroti City, the traditional home of opposition in Teso.”