State Minister for Works and Transport, Hon. Musa Francis Ecweru, has officially announced that he will contest the Amuria County parliamentary seat as an Independent candidate in the 2026 general elections.
The declaration was made to thunderous applause and chants of support during a Priestly Thanksgiving Mass for his nephew, Rev. Fr. William Omoda Onyait, held at his residence in Olianai Village, Willa Sub-county, Amuria District.
Standing before a large crowd of clergy, local leaders, and community members gathered for the celebration, Ecweru seized the moment to make the long-awaited announcement that had been the subject of intense speculation since his loss in the NRM party primaries.
“Don’t get ulcers, eat well. I am coming,” Ecweru declared with a smile, drawing laughter and applause. “I want to tell you, in 2026 I am on the ballot as Amuria County MP.”
The announcement brings a new twist to Amuria’s political landscape just weeks after Ecweru lost the NRM flag to Samuel Ediau, a political newcomer and educationist, during the party primaries.
The outcome shocked many and left Ecweru’s supporters demanding a return to the ballot, this time without the constraints of party politics.
While maintaining a tone of humility, Ecweru’s speech was also marked by confidence and subtle criticism of the manner in which the NRM primaries were conducted.
“The next elections will not be like what we saw,” he said. “There will be no intimidation and no secret ballots. Government will deploy to ensure the integrity of the elections is protected. The people’s voice must be heard.”
This statement, interpreted by many as a veiled reference to his recent allegations of electoral malpractice during the primaries, underscores his commitment to challenging what he previously described as a “fictional” election process.
Ecweru had earlier petitioned the NRM Election Disputes Tribunal, citing irregularities such as underage voting and inflated voter registers, but has now chosen to forge a new path.
“I am going to win the next elections with a big margin,” he boldly proclaimed.
The crowd erupted in cheers as his supporters, pledged their continued loyalty to a man they describe as “the father of Amuria.”
Despite the political announcement, the day’s primary focus was on spiritual celebration, as the Church and family gathered to give thanks for the ordination of Rev. Fr. William Omoda Onyait, Ecweru’s nephew, who had recently been ordained a Catholic priest.
The Thanksgiving Mass, led by a delegation of clergy from Soroti Diocese, was filled with emotion, prayer, and traditional Iteso music.
Fr. Omoda, in his address, thanked his family and community for the unwavering support throughout his journey to priesthood.
“I am deeply humbled to return home and celebrate this moment with you all,” Fr. Omoda said. “My calling is to serve with love, humility, and truth.”
Rev. Fr. Samuel Ebietu the Parish Parish of St. Micheal Wera encouraged the new priest to remain rooted in faith and to become a servant-leader for his flock. He also called upon the faithful to support the Church in nurturing more vocations.
“The Church needs more young men like Fr. Omoda who are willing to dedicate their lives to the service of God,” he said.
Ecweru’s decision to run as an Independent sets the stage for a high-stakes political showdown in Amuria County.
With over 20 years of experience in Parliament and a cabinet position under his belt, he commands a loyal base, particularly among the elders and youth in rural parts of the district.
Political analysts say his independent bid could split the NRM vote or even force a reconfiguration of local alliances, as some party loyalists may defect to back him.
Others warn that running outside the party may expose him to greater challenges in mobilization and logistics.
Nonetheless, Ecweru remains confident that the people of Amuria still trust his leadership and will deliver him back to Parliament come 2026.
“I have walked with you, cried with you, and developed with you. My track record speaks for itself,” he said, vowing to continue championing road infrastructure, education, and social welfare in the next term.
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