The political wave in Kanyum County has taken a dramatic turn as former cleric-turned-politician Bishop Patrick Kedi suffered a staggering defeat in the just-concluded National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries, losing to incumbent Simon Peter Opolot Okwalinga (Guardian) by a massive margin.
In official results released by the Kumi District NRM registrar on Thursday evening, Opolot Guardian secured a landslide victory with 17,064 votes, dwarfing Kedi’s 4,768 votes, and positioning himself as the party’s flag bearer for the 2026 parliamentary elections.
Complete Results – Kanyum County NRM Primaries indicate; Opolot Guardian got 17,064, Orena Vincent 7,075, Kedi Patrick 4,768, Okurut Daniel 132, suret Job 89, Omute Julius 88, Olinga Calvin 47 and Former MP Orot Ismael got 22 votes
The results sent shockwaves across Kanyum, where Kedi, who previously served as a respected religious leader before joining politics, was seen as one of the top contenders in the race.
However, voters overwhelmingly backed Opolot, whose message focused on grassroots empowerment, better service delivery, and a clean break from political theatrics.
In his post-election remarks, Guardian Opolot attributed his victory to the people of Kanyum, particularly the youth and women who formed the backbone of his campaign.
“This victory is not mine alone, it belongs to the ordinary people of Kanyum who have long yearned for new leadership,” Guardian said amid ululations from his supporters.
“We are starting a journey that will be defined by accountability, unity, and people-centered development.”
Observers noted that Guardian ran a well-organized and largely youth-driven campaign, positioning himself as a fresh alternative to candidates who have previously held public or religious office.
Another strong contender, Orena Vincent, came in second with a respectable 7,075 votes.
In related political developments, Kumi Municipality Mayor Richard Ochom emerged victorious in the NRM primaries, securing 3,337 votes to beat his closest rival Olaboro Charles, who polled 2,492 votes, while Omalinga Simon Peter trailed with 1,334 votes.
Kumi Municipality NRM Results: Ochom Richard got 3,337, Olaboro Charles 2,492, and Omalinga Simon Peter 1,334 votes.
With this win, Mayor Ochom now sets his sights on unseating incumbent Independent MP Silas Aogon in the 2026 general elections.
Speaking shortly after being declared the winner, Ochom said: “Kumi Municipality deserves a representative who speaks for the people, not above them. I am ready to take on the next challenge and deliver a leadership of action, not rhetoric.”
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