Prominent National Resistance Movement (NRM) mobilizers Teddy Acham and Shaban Ali have qpublicly declared their support for opposition leaders Hon. Joan Alobo Acom and Moses Okia Attan to be reelected as Soroti City Woman MP and Soroti City East MP, respectively, in the forthcoming elections.
The endorsement came during the Soroti Pentecostal Assemblies of God (PAG) fundraising run held at Soroti Sports Ground, an event that drew religious, political, and community leaders from across the Teso sub-region.
In a move that raised eyebrows among political watchers, both Acham and Shaban Ali praised the leadership of Alobo and Attan, despite their deep ties to the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party.
“These are good leaders who have stood with the people. Their performance is visible and cannot be ignored,” said Acham, while addressing the crowd. “We may come from different political affiliations, but we must speak the truth. Soroti deserves leaders like Alobo and Attan.”
Shaban Ali, echoing the sentiments, called upon both Alobo and Attan to consider joining the ruling NRM party either before or after the 2026 general elections.
“This is the time to unite and build Soroti City together. We believe Alobo and Attan have the qualities that align with the NRM’s goals of development, and we invite them to come on board, before or after the elections,” he said.
The event was graced by Bishop Mathew Omagor, who used the occasion to preach unity among political leaders in the Teso sub-region. Omagor said Teso politics was evolving and that leaders needed to put aside partisan differences to serve the people better.
“What we are witnessing today is a new chapter in Teso politics,” the Bishop said. “We must embrace peace, respect, and unity for the sake of our people. Political differences should never overshadow the development needs of our communities.”
He commended the leaders who attended the PAG fundraising run, noting that their presence signaled a willingness to cooperate for the good of the region.
In response to the calls for her to join the NRM, Soroti City Woman MP Hon. Joan Alobo Acom stood her ground, affirming her commitment to the FDC party.
She said her political journey has always been guided by truth and service, principles she believes are strongly upheld by the FDC.
“I respect the love shown to me today, but I remain in FDC because we stand for truth, transparency, and the rights of the people,” said Alobo. “It is truth that will liberate our communities, and I am proud to serve under the banner of FDC.”
She urged the Iteso community, particularly in Soroti, to come together and take responsibility for the development of their city.
“This is our home. Let us come back home and develop Soroti together,” she said.
Alobo also used the opportunity to thank the Church for their prayers and support during what she described as one of the most difficult moments of her career.
She referenced the recent demonstrations over delayed cattle compensation for war victims in Teso, which saw her detained alongside other leaders and activists.
“Many of us stood on the frontlines to demand justice for our people,” she said. “At least Shs 230 billion has now been released by government following our protests. I thank the Church and the people of Soroti for standing with us in prayer.”
Her remarks drew applause from the crowd, many of whom have been affected by the decades-long cattle rustling and displacement in the region.
Although Moses Okia Attan was not present to speak at the event, he was repeatedly praised by Acham and Shaban for his leadership record while serving as Soroti City East MP.
Attan, a seasoned FDC leader, is widely expected to contest for the seat again in 2026.
“Attan has always been a people-centered leader. Even when he was not in Parliament, he has remained visible and active in community development,” said Shaban.
The open support for opposition politicians by ruling party mobilizers signals a shifting political tide in Soroti City, where the lines between party loyalty and performance-based leadership are beginning to blur.
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Thanks so much Calvin and the media team that was present ,all politicians m
May God bless you