Five opposition Members of Parliament from Acholi sub-region have initiated roundtable discussions with the government, citing the need for a new approach to improving the welfare of their constituents ahead of the 2026 elections and a possible transition in leadership.
The MPs—Anthony Akol (Kilak North), Gilbert Olanya (Kilak South), Peter Okot (Tochi), Santa Okot (Aruu North), and their team leader Okin PP Ojara (Chua West)—announced the development following initial talks with the Minister of State for Internal Affairs, General David Muhoozi, on February 27, 2025.
“We are grateful to the government for embracing constructive dialogue and look forward to walking the talk,” Okin PP Ojara said, emphasizing that the decision stemmed from past frustrations in advocating for better living conditions for their people.
In a marked shift from their previous confrontational stance, the legislators argue that a more cooperative approach will better serve their efforts to address key regional concerns.
“We take note of the government delegation’s non-adversarial approach to the discussions, which enabled us to find common ground on various issues,” Ojara stated.
Among their key demands are compensation for lost livestock and property, the enactment of a transitional justice law with a functional institutional framework, resolution of land conflicts, inclusivity in the mining sector, industrialization of the region, and increased political appointments for Acholi leaders.
The MPs have resolved to continue engagements with the government through dialogue. Kilak South MP Gilbert Olanya further called for the creation of more administrative units in Northern Uganda, arguing that the region is underrepresented.
“We don’t have enough administrative units, and therefore, we cannot compete favorably,” he told journalists in Gulu City.
The legislators also pledged to collaborate with ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) counterparts to advance their agenda.
Aruu North MP Santa Okot suggested a change in political terminology, arguing that the term ‘opposition’ is outdated.
“Now we have woken up. I think we have received some treatment that is making us see beyond where we are seated. Actually, this word ‘opposition’ should be changed. When we go back to Parliament, we should move a motion to call it the ‘Minority,’” she said.
Their new stance signals a potential shift in Acholi’s political dynamics, as opposition MPs seek alternative strategies to ensure their region’s concerns are addressed by the government.
