As Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections, several journalists from the Teso sub-region have stepped into the political arena.
These media professionals, once known for reporting the news, are now making headlines themselves as they seek elective positions to influence governance and community development.
Julius Ichoto AKA Jeje Eminat – MP Kapir County in Ngora District
Julius Ichoto, also known as Jeje Eminat, is a multifaceted Ugandan personality recognized for his contributions in politics, entertainment, and community engagement.
His diverse roles include being a politician, singer, actor, journalist, and public relations officer.
In April 2024, Ichoto addressed youth at Agigiroi Primary School in Kapir County, Ngora District, emphasizing the importance of hard work and seizing opportunities for future security.
Drawing from his extensive experience, he highlighted the need for young people to be proactive and resourceful in pursuing their goals.
Ichoto’s dedication to community development and empowerment has garnered significant support.
Kapir voters have expressed their enthusiasm with chants of “Ichoto Long! Ichoto Our Man! Ichoto Thank You!” as they anticipate his candidacy for the Kapir County Member of Parliament seat in 2026.
Beyond his political and entertainment endeavors, Ichoto serves as a life educator, mentor, and health marriage counselor.
He hosts the popular love show “The Night Lockdown,” on Voice of Teso Radio further showcasing his commitment to guiding and supporting his community.
Omuya Noah – Eastern Uganda Youth MP 
Noah Omuya is a multifaceted Ugandan journalist, entrepreneur, and youth advocate, recognized for his significant contributions to media and community development.
He is the founder and CEO of Aica Communications Ltd, a media company that operates the online platform Aica Media, focusing on rural issues, particularly in the Teso and Karamoja sub-regions.
Omuya’s dedication to journalism has earned him accolades, including the Media Challenge Awards for Best Feature Story in 2018 and Best Climate Change Photography in 2019.
His passion for environmental reporting is deeply personal, stemming from his upbringing in a rural family where he witnessed firsthand the impacts of climate change on agriculture.
This experience inspired him to educate others about environmental issues, leading to the publication of his book, “The Wrath of a Tree: An African Narrative of Climate Change,” in March 2023.
Beyond his media endeavors, Omuya is actively involved in youth empowerment and sustainable development.
He has engaged with national leaders to advocate for youth economic stability and has coordinated regional efforts to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
In January 2025, he announced his candidacy for the Eastern Youth Member of Parliament seat in the upcoming 2026 general elections, aiming to further champion the causes of young people in the region.
Omuya maintains an active online presence, sharing his work and insights on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, where he continues to inspire and mobilize the youth toward positive change.
Ariong Stephen – Serere County MP
Steven Ariong is a Ugandan journalist has been affiliated with the Daily Monitor, primarily reporting on events in the Karamoja sub-region.
His work encompasses a range of topics, including security, community initiatives, and local governance.
Professional Background:
- Education: Steven studied Journalism at UMCAT School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
- Career: He has been serving as a News Correspondent for the Daily Monitor, contributing articles that shed light on the unique challenges and developments within Karamoja.
Notable Reporting:
- Community Initiatives: Steven has highlighted efforts by local groups, such as the Women Peace Forum, which uses songs and dialogue to promote peace and discourage cattle rustling in the region.
- Security Issues: He has reported on security operations, including incidents where suspected criminals abandoned firearms and motorcycles at police checkpoints.
- Governance and Accountability: Steven has covered stories on local governance, such as instances where town clerks have fled office due to failed accountability for significant funds.
Online Presence:
- Social Media: Steven maintains an active presence on Facebook, where he shares insights and updates related to his journalistic endeavors.
Through his dedicated reporting, Steven Ariong plays a crucial role in bringing attention to the socio-economic and security dynamics of the Karamoja sub-region, fostering informed public discourse.
Edward Eninu – Kasilo County MP
Edward Eninu is a Ugandan journalist serving as the Bureau Chief for the Uganda Radio Network (URN) in Soroti, Uganda.
In this capacity, he oversees news coverage and reporting in the region, contributing to various stories that impact the local community.
Beyond his journalistic endeavors, Eninu has shown a commitment to public service.
Approximately seven months ago, he expressed intentions to run for the Member of Parliament seat for Kasilo County in Serere District.
During this period, he engaged with the youth, encouraging them to remain focused and dedicated to their aspirations.
He also pledged to empower women through various initiatives aimed at enhancing their livelihoods.
Eninu maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter), where he shares insights related to his work and regional developments.
Through his roles in journalism and community engagement, Edward Eninu continues to contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of his region.
Julius Obongo – LCV Chairperson Kalaki District 
Julius Obongo is a Ugandan journalist and political analyst.
He has served as the Secretary General of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Kyambogo University Chapter for the 2023-2024 term.
In this role, he has been involved in various political activities and discussions.
In May 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Julius Obongo was among the journalists whose contracts were terminated by Vision Group, the publisher of Etop Newspaper.
This decision was part of cost-cutting measures implemented by the company during the economic challenges posed by the pandemic.
Additionally, Julius has been active on social media platforms, sharing information and engaging with the public on various topics.
For instance, he has promoted affordable CCTV camera services in Kampala.
Overall, Julius Obongo is recognized for his contributions to journalism and political analysis in Uganda.
Egwoku Simon Peter AKA Captain Angle – LC3 Wera Sub County Amuria District
Egwoku Simon Peter, also known as Captain Angel, is a prominent Ugandan journalist and radio personality.
Currently working for Soroti Catholic Diocese based Kyoga Veritas. He previously served as a presenter and producer at Savior Radio and has also worked, as a reporter and Presenter for Eastern Uganda at Delta FM and Faith FM.
In April 2024, after five years of dedicated service, Captain Angel announced his departure from Delta Radio in Soroti City.
During his tenure, he was instrumental in leading various programs, including sports coverage, entertainment segments, artist interviews, political talk shows, and delivering Ateso news updates.
Beyond his media career, Captain Angel has shown a commitment to community service.
In January 2025, he declared his intention to run for the Wera Sub-County LC3 Chairperson position, aiming to bring positive change to the area.
Additionally, Egwoku Simon Peter contributes to local journalism by reporting on various community events and issues.
For instance, he covered several subjects including the swearing-in ceremony of new student leaders at Mukura Union Mission Vision Senior Secondary School in June 2024.
Osike Jonah Akello AKA Mosh Akello – LCV Youth Councillor Ocokican Sub County in Soroti District
Jonah Osike Akello, also known as Mosh, is a Ugandan radio presenter and news anchor. He has been initially associated with Voice of Teso Radio, 88.4 FM, where he anchors the English news segments.
His broadcasts have been featured on platforms like YouTube, showcasing his role in delivering news to the community.
In addition to his work in radio, Jonah has a background in education. He attended Alliance High School and is currently self-employed.
Jonah is also recognized for his vocal talents, with demos highlighting his engaging voice suitable for radio.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Jonah maintains an active online presence, sharing his work and engaging with his audience through various platforms.
Emmanuel Olinga – LCIII Akoboi Sub County Katakwi district
Emmanuel Olinga is a Ugandan journalist known for his contributions to regional media, particularly in the Karamoja and Teso sub-regions.
He has reported on various socio-economic issues affecting these areas, including education, cultural events, and community challenges.
Professional Background:
- Education: Olinga holds a Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communications.
- Experience: He has gained experience working with multiple radio stations, serving as a presenter, news reporter, and anchor.
Notable Reporting:
- Education Advocacy: In November 2024, Olinga reported on teachers in Katakwi District appealing to the government for inclusion in hard-to-reach allowances, highlighting the challenges they face due to floods and long commutes.
- Cultural Events: He covered the Ateker Reunion Festival in Soroti City, an event that attracted over 10,000 attendees and received UGX 2.3 billion in government support.
- Humanitarian Efforts: Olinga reported on the distribution of food assistance to over 200 flood victims in Katakwi, showcasing the efforts of charitable organizations in the region.
Through his dedicated journalism, Emmanuel Olinga plays a vital role in bringing attention to the pressing issues and cultural heritage of Uganda’s northeastern communities.
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