Former Obongi County MP Hassan Kaps Fungaroo is mounting a political comeback with a campaign anchored in unity, reconciliation, and youth involvement—this time using football as his rallying point.
Having served in Parliament from 2006 to 2021 before losing his seat to Dr. George Bhoka Didi, Fungaroo is now tapping into sport’s power to rebuild his political influence ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Football as a bridge
Over the weekend, Palorinya sub-county hosted the opening round of the Obongi District Unity Cup, a football tournament initiated and funded by Fungaroo.
He described it as more than just a sporting event—calling it a tool to heal rifts and bring people together.
“When Obongi became a district in 2019, some Moyo leaders opposed the move, fearing the loss of refugee-related funding,” Fungaroo said during the trophy presentation.
“This fueled efforts to push Palorinya back into Moyo, creating divisions that slowed development.”
He deliberately launched the Unity Cup in Palorinya, one of the areas most affected by such tensions, declaring, “I want to show that we are stronger when united.”
Extending an olive branch
In a rare political move, Fungaroo coupled his campaign pitch with an apology.
“I have come to ask for your votes again, but also for your forgiveness for past misunderstandings,” he told the crowd. He dismissed claims that his opposition affiliation made him unable to work with the government, asserting that he could collaborate with leaders from any party for the district’s progress.
Citing his previous tenure, he noted bringing the Speaker of Parliament to Obongi, hosting ministers, and inviting both the Ugandan and South Sudanese presidents to address refugee and cross-border issues.
Support from unlikely quarters
The event drew praise from political rivals, including John Alumai, a recent NRM primary contender for the Obongi seat.
“I believe in Fungaroo’s ability to mobilize, unite, and promote talent,” Alumai said, commending the tournament’s organization.
Community leaders welcome his return
LC III chairperson of Palorinya sub-county, Luke, lauded Fungaroo’s renewed political engagement, saying his absence had deepened divisions and hindered service delivery.
Eye on 2026
Fungaroo’s Unity Cup marks the start of his strategy to reconnect with voters, rebuild alliances, and empower youth.
As matches move across sub-counties, his goal is clear—not just to win games, but to regain the trust and mandate of Obongi’s people.
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