Visionary man declares bid for Lira City council mayoral seat

Dr. Morish Chris Ongom, the NRM General Secretary for Lira City and Director of Chamber of Commerce and Industries for Lango sub-region, has declared his intention to contest the Lira City mayoral seat in the 2026 general elections.

Addressing journalists and NRM leaders on Tuesday at Margherita Palace Hotel in Lira City, Ongom formally announced his candidacy. He unveiled a 10-point manifesto focused on accelerating developmental progress in Lira City.

He emphasized that he would first seek the endorsement and party flag of the NRM. “I do so with confidence in the trust and discernment of our party structures,” he stated, adding his belief that the party would select a candidate with “credibility, vision, and results-driven leadership.”

His 10-point agenda includes institutionalizing e-Governance for transparency and efficient service delivery, building a “city of shared possibilities” and publishing annual anti-corruption and governance reports to enforce accountability.

He intends to strengthen community peace and security through youth engagement, beautifying and greening the city; establishing a Lira City Innovation and Entrepreneurship, among others.

He urged NRM members to “elect a leader who can elevate our city to the next level,” pledging party loyalty: “Should I lose in the primaries, I will not contest as an independent candidate. Instead, I will campaign for the party’s flag bearer to ensure the NRM retains the seat.”

Dr. Ongom’s bid received immediate backing from Tony Olipa Lipton, the recently elected NRM chairperson for Lira City West Division.

“We have scrutinized the field and concluded that Dr. Morish Chris Ongom is the right candidate for mayor,” Lipton declared.

Tom Alex Ogwal, NRM chairperson for Lira City East Division, also endorsed Ongom, citing his experience: “He is the most qualified human resource the party has at this time. I urge all delegates to fully support him.”

Susan Oduka Adongo, Lira City women’s league chairperson, assured Ongom of women’s support: “You have presented a bright daytime vision capable of transforming our city. Women will vote for you.”

Jacob Ocen, Lira City NRM publicity secretary, clarified the party’s open-contest policy.

“While more aspirants may emerge, Article 39 of NRM guidelines allows all to contest. Ultimately, primaries will determine our sole candidate for the general election.”