As the race intensifies ahead of the 2026 parliamentary elections, contenders for the Pece-Laroo Division seat in Gulu City say they remain unfazed by the return of Democratic Party (DP) president Norbert Mao to local politics.

Mao, who recently secured the DP nomination, quietly re-entered local political contests after years of concentrating on national leadership. His comeback, given his position as Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, his eloquence, and extensive political background, has nonetheless sparked varied reactions among his rivals.

Tony Kitara, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, stated in an interview on Wednesday that he is not afraid of facing Mao in the forthcoming parliamentary contest. Kitara expressed confidence that his leadership experience would enable him to defeat Mao in the January 15, 2026 elections.

He further cautioned the ruling party against any behind-the-scenes deals, emphasizing that it would be very unfortunate for the party if the NRM decided to withdraw its candidate in favor of the DP nominee.

Independent candidate Caesar Lubangakene, who regards Mao as his political mentor, expressed disappointment with the DP leader’s decision to rejoin local politics. He said Mao’s return symbolizes a betrayal of youth empowerment by the elderly in both local and national arenas. According to Lubangakene, the continued dominance of long-serving politicians shows that the old generation of leaders doesn’t see the youth as present leaders.

Both Kitara and Lubangakene, who officially launched their campaigns on Monday, have announced their key priorities for Laroo-Pece and the Acholi region.

Kitara’s agenda centers on changing community mindsets, household economic empowerment, and supporting entrepreneurs through affordable credit. He also unveiled a boda boda savings scheme, pledging 24 million shillings annually to cover daily fuel for 1,600 riders, encouraging each of the 40 riders per stage to save 1,000 shillings daily. Through this plan, he anticipates total annual savings of 576 million shillings among riders.

Lubangakene’s campaign focuses on improving access to primary healthcare by establishing a mobile health clinic and a community health insurance scheme for group members. He also plans to expand the Gulu East table banking initiative to promote group savings among the youth, with hopes of transforming it into a community microfinance institution that fosters economic independence.

Mao has yet to formally kick off his campaign in Laroo-Pece Division, and his team has not released any official dates for rallies or other constituency events.

In addition to Mao, Kitara, and Lubangakene, the parliamentary race has attracted several other contenders, including incumbent Fr. Charles Onen (Independent), Simon Opoka (UPC), Geoffrey Komakech (FDC), Wilfred Opobo, and Edward Odong, both running as independents.