By David Imaa
Tororo Municipality witnessed a powerful display of political energy and unity on Tuesday as hundreds of enthusiastic residents poured into the Children’s Lions Park for the official launch of Shyam Tanna’s parliamentary campaign.
The event, marked by bold speeches, heartfelt endorsements, and a strong call for transformation, signaled the beginning of what promises to be one of the most closely watched parliamentary races in Eastern Uganda.
The rally kicked off with a compelling endorsement from LC1 Chairperson Lawrence Wamale, who described Tanna as a candidate capable of steering Tororo toward a brighter future.
“I have thrown my heart into this race,” he declared. “But Shyam, when you win, remember the people. They need your voice, your commitment, and your honesty.” His plea set the tone for the day, an emphatic demand for leadership rooted in integrity and responsiveness.
Bision Maguria councillor Aketch Josephine captivated the crowd with a rallying call for renewed leadership.
“It is time for change,” she said, stressing that Tororo’s potential has long been stifled by inactivity and unfulfilled promises. District councillor Emojong Fred reinforced the message, criticizing what he termed a decade of insufficient representation.
“For ten years, we have lacked a leader who carries our ideas to the floor of Parliament. This is the moment to choose someone who stands with the people,” he remarked.
Hon. Sarah Apadet, the district female councillor representing Tororo Municipality, urged her followers across the municipality to rally behind Tanna’s candidacy.
She praised his openness, accessibility, and youthful approach to leadership. “We deserve a leader who listens and acts. Let us unite and give Shyam Tanna our full support,” she encouraged.
One of the event’s most striking moments came when former Tororo Municipality Mayor John Opiyo, previously a close ally of incumbent MP Hon. Apollo Yeri, publicly shifted his allegiance.
His message was unequivocal: “Those still supporting Apollo, your time to cry has come. We need a leader who can deliver. Shyam is the right person, a son of Sanjay Tanna, and a leader with vision.”
The presence of Hon. Sanjay Tanna, a seasoned political figure and father to the candidate, added weight to the day’s proceedings.
Introducing his son under the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), a political alliance closely aligned with the ruling NRM, he applauded President Museveni’s contributions to national stability and infrastructure development.
He called on voters to support both the President and Shyam in the January 15 elections.
Sanjay did not shy away from criticizing the current leadership of Tororo Municipality.
He accused MP Apollo Yeri of failing to meet the digital and administrative demands of the modern era and of mishandling resources meant for public benefit.
“Things sent from Kampala for Tororo do not reach the people. They disappear on the way,” he alleged, sparking murmurs of agreement from sections of the crowd.
When Shyam Tanna finally took the podium, he outlined a five-point manifesto built around economic empowerment, youth employment, educational support, infrastructure development, and improved healthcare.
His pledges include establishing a job desk to link young people to employment opportunities, focusing on empowerment rather than short-term handouts, and offering scholarships to top-performing students to reward academic excellence.
He further promised to restore street lighting throughout the municipality to enhance safety, lobby for Tororo General Hospital’s elevation to regional referral status, and push for improvements on the Nagongera Road while advocating for the operationalization of the local airstrip.
Shyam also emphasized the economic potential of the underutilized rock in the area, pledging to champion its development for the benefit of the community.
“What Tororo needs is honest leadership, inclusive service delivery, and a commitment to progress for every household,” Shyam told his supporters.
He urged residents to remain vigilant in protecting campaign materials following reports of vandalism.
“Let us guard our posters and banners. Do not allow anyone to silence our message of change.”
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We need a vibrant leader with fresh mind I think Shyam is the right candidate