The political temperature in Tororo Municipality has started to rise following the nomination of the prominent businessman and former MP Sanjay Tanna’s son, Shyam Tanna, to contest for the Tororo Municipality parliamentary seat in 2026.
The recently former MP Tanna explained, during a live appearance on East FM Tororo, why he believes his son is a better choice for the constituency than the incumbent, Hon. Apollo Yeri Ofwono.
In what many have described as a heartfelt and candid interview, Sanjay Tanna revisited the events of 2020 that led him to step aside for Apollo Yeri to contest as the NRM flag bearer in the 2021 elections.
Tanna said his decision at the time was based on trust, compromise, and respect for an agreement reached with several senior figures during internal party negotiations.
“Remember, I was going for the party position of National Vice-Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, standing against Mike Mukula. In a compromise where I needed endorsement from my home base, we sat in a room with several distinguished people who will soon come out to explain what was discussed,” Tanna said.
He added that during that meeting, three key assurances were made by Apollo Yeri himself.
“Honourable Apollo Ofwono Yeri said that the 2021–2026 term would be his last. He also mentioned that he was not keeping well health-wise, and most importantly, he pledged to support me in the future,” Tanna revealed.
It was on the basis of those three assurances that Sanjay chose not to run for MP in 2021, instead throwing his support behind Apollo as an act of good faith and unity.
“I was told by other stakeholders that, considering his health, we should let him go through. So, in good faith, I supported him as a gentleman. He also reciprocated by telling the people of Tororo how good I am as a person and a leader,” he explained.
However, four years later, Sanjay says he has been overwhelmed by calls and messages from constituents expressing disappointment in Apollo’s leadership and urging him to take action.
“In my own opinion, I have been getting several calls saying the man we supported has failed us in many aspects. The discontent among the people of Tororo is extremely high,” Tanna said, adding that the growing dissatisfaction compelled him to support his son, Shyam, to step forward and restore confidence in the constituency’s leadership.
Sanjay Tanna described his son, Shyam Tanna, as a disciplined, visionary, and development-oriented young leader who has grown up watching his father’s service to the people.
“Shyam represents the next generation of leadership, one that combines innovation, compassion, and continuity. He has been involved in community projects quietly, supporting education, health, and youth empowerment initiatives through our family foundation,” Sanjay noted.
The younger Tanna, who holds strong business credentials and maintains a close working relationship with youth groups across Tororo, has promised to continue building on his father’s legacy of service, transparency, and inclusivity.
Speaking after his Nomination, Shyam emphasized that his decision to contest is not about family ambition but about restoring trust and performance in Tororo Municipality.
“The people of Tororo deserve results, not excuses. My mission is to rekindle hope among our youth, improve business opportunities, and strengthen education and health systems. I will contest as an independent candidate, but remain NRM-leaning, fully supportive of the party’s broader development agenda,” he said.
In Tororo Municipality, the nomination has triggered a wave of reactions.
Some residents, particularly youth and traders, say the Tanna family has a proven record of delivery and community engagement.
Beatrice Achieng, a market vendor, said, “We remember when Sanjay was MP, our schools, roads, and small businesses benefited. If his son is anything like him, we are ready to give him a chance.”
Others have criticized Apollo Yeri’s tenure, citing unfulfilled promises and a perceived disconnect from the grassroots.
John Owor, a boda-boda leader, said, “We don’t see our MP anymore. Many of us feel abandoned. Maybe it’s time for a new face.”
Political analysts in the region believe the entry of Shyam Tanna could shake up the political landscape of Tororo Municipality.
According to Mr. Andrew Oyet, a political commentator based in Eastern Uganda, Shyam’s candidacy represents both continuity and reform.
“The Tanna family name still commands respect in Tororo. Sanjay’s decision to back his son, especially after his earlier withdrawal in favor of Apollo, carries moral weight. It paints a picture of a family that values integrity and commitment,” Oyet explained.
He added that Apollo Yeri’s political strength has been waning due to visible voter fatigue and unmet expectations, giving Shyam a favorable head start among the youth and business community.
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