In scenes of jubilation rarely witnessed in Lamwo, residents of Padibe town council lined the dusty streets singing and dancing in celebration of Acora Nancy Odonga’s victory in the just-concluded National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries.
Acora was declared the official party flag bearer for the Woman Member of Parliament seat for Lamwo district after securing a landslide 21,751 votes.
Her closest challenger, Lanyero Molly, trailed with 9,357 votes, while Lamunu Nancy and Aciro Jane Opio garnered 2,514 and 1,389 votes respectively.
For many supporters, the celebration marked more than just a political win; it was the culmination of a grassroots-driven campaign built on community dialogue, accessibility, and an unwavering focus on maternal health and youth empowerment.
“She walked with us, ate with us, and listened to our cries,” said Akot Joyce, a mother of six from Lokung. “This win is not just hers. It is ours.”
Acora’s campaign reached deep into every sub-county from the remote hamlets of Madi Opei to the bustling trading centers of Palabek and was lauded for its inclusivity and humility. Young people especially turned out in large numbers to support her.
“Hon. Nancy gave us hope,” noted Robert Ocola, a Political analyst in Lamwo . “She didn’t make empty promises. She pledged to fight for our future in health, education, and jobs.”
The NRM primaries across Lamwo were conducted peacefully under tight security, with the District Electoral Commission and observers reporting high voter turnout and orderliness.
Elsewhere in Lamwo district, Nyeko Johnson Kezekiya clinched the NRM flag for Lamwo County MP seat with 16,560 votes, beating Dr. Aabuka Okullu Jallon Anthony (3,328), Dr. Abach James (2,905), and Oketayot Thomas (2,190).
In Palabek County, Onek Hillary Obaloker emerged victorious with 5,755 votes, fending off Odongkara Geoffrey Obalim (3,955) and Amone Charles (1,076).
In Chua East, Oryem Henry Okello swept the NRM primaries with 13,741 votes, followed by Lukoya Calvine (4,823), Tolit Frederick Ocitti (4,681), and Luwo Godfrey (2,830).
Meanwhile, in neighboring Kitgum district, Aber Lillian secured a commanding victory in the Woman MP NRM primaries with 30,810 votes.
Call for unity
Following the hotly contested primaries, Lamwo district NRM chairperson Odoch Polycarp urged all party supporters to uphold unity and peace.
“The candidates have shown maturity. Now their supporters must follow suit. This is not the time for violence or division,” Odoch said during the official results announcement. “We must rally behind our flag bearers and prepare as one team for 2026.”
Odoch also called on religious and community leaders to guide reconciliation efforts and cautioned against misinformation and incitement.
What’s next?
With the primaries concluded, focus now shifts to preparations for the 2026 general elections. Acora Nancy and fellow flag bearers are expected to begin consolidating support, forming inclusive campaign teams, and addressing community priorities ahead of the national vote.
As she addressed her supporters during the celebration, Acora Nancy was clear in her message: “This victory belongs to the people. My work begins now to serve, to listen, and to deliver.”
In the wake of their landslide victories, Acora Nancy Odonga and Nyeko Johnson Kezekiya have both pledged to immediately pivot from celebration to service, vowing to begin community engagements and reconciliation across Lamwo district.
Acora, the NRM flag bearer for Woman MP in Lamwo, emphasized her commitment to inclusivity and grassroots development. “This is a victory for every mother, every youth, and every elder who believed in our message of transformation,” she said.
“My immediate priority is to reach out to all communities including those who didn’t vote for me and start discussing real solutions to maternal health, education gaps, and women’s economic empowerment.”
She also extended an olive branch to her former opponents and their supporters. “I welcome all my sisters who stood in this race. We are not enemies; we are all daughters of Lamwo. Let us unite for the sake of our people.”
Meanwhile, Nyeko Johnson Kezekiya, who won the NRM flag for Lamwo County MP, reiterated his focus on healing political divisions and launching consultations for a people-centered manifesto.
“I am humbled by the confidence the people of Lamwo have placed in me. But now the real work begins,” Nyeko stated. “We must put politics aside and focus on improving livelihoods, upgrading our health facilities, and investing in youth skills and agriculture.”
He revealed plans to hold a series of unity barazas (community dialogues) across Lamwo County, starting next week.
“Everyone must feel heard whether they voted for me or not. My leadership will be about inclusion, not exclusion,” he added.
Both candidates have pledged to uphold the NRM’s values of service and development as they prepare to take on their opponents from other political parties in the 2026 general elections.
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