The political atmosphere in Ngariam County is heating up as former NRM primary aspirant Daniel Mulalu officially released his campaign poster for the 2026 parliamentary elections, signaling his readiness to challenge incumbent MP and State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang.
Mulalu, now contesting as an independent, has vowed to deliver a grassroots-driven campaign under the symbol of a Wheelbarrow, accompanied by the slogan “Kazi Ni Kazi” (Work is Work).
The Wheelbarrow symbol, Mulalu says, represents “the hustlers and the hardworking ordinary citizens of Ngariam who have long been sidelined in the politics of money and intimidation.”
While speaking to our reporter, Mulalu issued a stern warning to his rival, Minister Peter Ogwang, urging him to desist from what he termed “the politics of fear, bribery, and manipulation” as Ngariam gears up for what promises to be a hotly contested general election.
“I want to categorically warn my brother, Hon. Peter Ogwang, against poll violence, voter intimidation, and voter bribery,” Mulalu declared. “The people of Ngariam are tired of coercion. This election will be about free choice, dignity, and fairness.”
He further called on security agencies and the Electoral Commission to ensure that the 2026 elections are conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner.
“Our democracy must rise above threats and vote buying. I urge the Electoral Commission to enforce the law without fear or favor. The world is watching Ngariam, and we must show that our people can vote without duress,” Mulalu added.
Mulalu’s remarks come just weeks after the controversial July 17, 2025 NRM primaries, in which Minister Ogwang was declared the party’s flag bearer with a landslide victory of 35,076 votes against Mulalu’s 2,264. Another aspirant, Augustine Otuko, polled 1,888 votes.
While Mulalu did not formally petition the NRM Electoral Tribunal, he has consistently maintained that the primaries were marred by “glaring irregularities”, including voter intimidation, bribery, disenfranchisement, and alleged collusion between Ogwang and NRM electoral officials.
“I chose not to petition the tribunal because it is an internal party process often compromised by political influence,” Mulalu said. “Instead, I decided to take my fight directly to the people of Ngariam, where my true mandate lies.”
He insisted that his independent candidacy is not a betrayal of the NRM but a response to what he described as “a hijacked internal process that denied the people their voice.”
Mulalu’s adoption of the Wheelbarrow symbol has quickly become a rallying point for his campaign.
With the slogan “Kazi Ni Kazi”, Mulalu says he seeks to align himself with the struggles of ordinary citizens who survive on small-scale farming, petty trade, and manual labor.
“The wheelbarrow is the true symbol of our people’s hustle, it carries food to market, water to homes, and bricks to build schools. ‘Kazi Ni Kazi’ means no job is too small, and every honest hustle deserves respect,” Mulalu explained.
His campaign is expected to focus on youth empowerment, agricultural support, improved service delivery, and grassroots economic transformation.
Mulalu’s independent bid has already gained traction among sections of Ngariam’s electorate, particularly disillusioned NRM supporters who feel the primaries did not reflect the will of the people.
“We are with Mulalu because he represents the real hustlers of Ngariam. The primaries were rigged, and we want our voices heard,” said a supporter from Okore Sub County.
Political analysts warn that Mulalu’s candidacy could split the NRM vote in Ngariam, creating one of the most competitive races in Teso Sub-region ahead of the 2026 polls.
Dr. Alex Odong, a political scholar noted that: “Mulalu’s campaign taps into post-primary grievances and grassroots frustrations. His Wheelbarrow movement is symbolic and could resonate deeply if properly mobilized. Ogwang’s camp cannot afford to underestimate this challenge.”
Despite his criticisms, Mulalu emphasized his commitment to a peaceful and lawful campaign, urging his supporters to reject violence.
“We shall win through persuasion, not confrontation. I call on my supporters to remain disciplined, respect the law, and avoid any form of provocation. Ngariam deserves a mature and issue-based election,” he stated.
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