While he has yet to officially join the ruling party from the Independent-UPC fold, the Otuke County MP hopes to carry the yellow flag in 2025, ahead of the 2026 general elections.
After failing to secure the UPC flag, Omara decided to run for an MP seat on an independent ticket in 2021. Originally, he was a congressman.
However, after years of representing his constituents “independently,” Omara is now preparing to push them into the yellow bus. The bus driver is President Museveni Yoweri Kaguta, who is 80.
On March 12, during the groundbreaking ceremony for a 16.9km oilseeds road in Otuke, MP Omara announced his intention to run for re-election in 2026 on the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket.
The audience reacted positively to his announcement.
He stated that his time in Parliament has reinforced his belief that collaboration with the ruling party is essential for providing services to the local community.
“I have learned a lot from the trust my voters have placed in me as their Member of Parliament. It is very important to work with the ruling government to bring services closer to the people,” he added.
Omara also stated unequivocally that he intends to retain his Otuke County seat, urging potential opponents to give him the opportunity to complete his manifesto.
“I want to announce very early that Otuke County is still in the hands of Paul Omara. For those who are willing to come and compete with me, please first give Omara a chance to complete his manifesto.”
The legislator expressed confidence in winning the NRM primaries and carrying the party flag in the 2026 elections. He revealed that at least eight to nine potential candidates have expressed interest in the same seat, but he is undeterred.
“President Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa’s State Lodge is located in my constituency, and this will give me more opportunities to interact with the President at length. I have made up my mind to join the NRM party,” Omara bragged.
The announcement sets the stage for what promises to be a highly competitive race in Otuke County, with Richard Omara Awio, who held the ruling flag in 2021, returning to take his namaske’s seat in 2026.
As the 2026 elections approach, all eyes will be on Omara and his efforts to secure the NRM ticket and keep his seat in Parliament.
However, a senior member of NRM party says it won’t be easy for him to get the ruling party flag.
“We think he is still new in the party and he can’t be trusted yet, we have other options for the flag,” he said on condition of anonymity.
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