Dokolo South Constituency is gaining momentum as two determined challengers step up to contest the seat held for nearly three decades by Felix Okot Ogong. The long-serving legislator, who has represented Dokolo South since 1996 under the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), now faces renewed pressure from opposition candidates promising change and targeted development.
Okot Ogong, one of Uganda’s longest-serving Members of Parliament, seeks re-election on the NRM ticket. His bid comes at a time when the constituency is grappling with persistent challenges—including poor road networks, inadequate education infrastructure, water shortages, and failures in healthcare delivery.
In the 2021 parliamentary elections, Okot Ogong narrowly defeated then-FDC candidate Vincent Opito, garnering 13,285 votes against Opito’s 11,631—a slim margin of 1,654 votes. Another contender, NUP’s Ambrose Ocen, secured 706 votes. With political dynamics shifting and voter expectations rising, analysts predict a more competitive race in 2026.
Now contesting on the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) ticket, Vincent Opito is widely regarded as a strong challenger in the upcoming race. He has outlined a vision centered on inclusive development, pledging to address the diverse needs of young people, older persons, persons with disabilities, car washers, mobile business operators, and other underserved groups.
Opito has identified Adeknino, Okwongodul, and Kwera sub-counties—areas he says have suffered long periods of neglect—as priority zones for intervention. He specifically highlights the ongoing destruction of crops by hippopotamuses migrating from Lake Kwania, a problem he says the incumbent has failed to raise in Parliament.
“Despite the severity of the issue, the current MP has ignored it. If given the mandate, I will ensure affected families receive adequate government compensation. I am the only true leader in this race, and I urge the people of Dokolo South to support my bid,” Opito said.
Okot Ogong maintains that his experience and long-standing service place him in the best position to continue representing Dokolo South effectively. He highlights efforts made over the years—including support to churches, sponsorship of bright students, and direct assistance to vulnerable households—as proof of his commitment.
“I will dedicate my time and energy to improving the lives of our people and promoting development across Dokolo District. I remain committed to coordinating with central and local government to ensure that all programmes intended for Dokolo are fully implemented,” he said.
He further pledged to promote the welfare of youth, women, persons with disabilities, and older persons through government-led development initiatives.
Democratic Party (DP) candidate Julius Engwau enters the race with a focus on revitalizing education in Dokolo South. Citing chronic challenges such as poor performance in national examinations, high dropout rates, and inadequate facilities, he promises reforms aimed at strengthening the entire education ecosystem.
His plans include advocating for new classrooms, libraries, and science laboratories; enhancing teacher training and motivation; and expanding scholarships and bursaries for disadvantaged learners. He emphasizes community involvement—parents, teachers, and local leaders—in creating an environment conducive to successful learning.
Health service delivery remains a pivotal concern. Many voters are pushing for the upgrade of Dokolo Health Centre IV to full general hospital status—a project all candidates are expected to address in their manifestos.
According to political analyst Jasper Ouni, leadership style and accountability will play a major role in influencing voters.
“People want leaders who can deliver on their promises and provide effective representation,” he said.
Voters across the Lango sub-region continue to grapple with poor roads, limited access to affordable education, water shortages, unemployment, and inadequate healthcare. Candidates who present practical solutions to these pressing issues are likely to gain significant support.
Based on the 2024 National Population and Housing Census, Dokolo District is home to 215,625 people—108,260 males and 107,365 females. In the 2021 parliamentary elections, Dokolo South Constituency recorded 40,468 voters.
As the 2026 campaigns intensify, all eyes remain on Dokolo South, where the battle for representation promises to be one of the most closely watched contests in the Lango sub-region.