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Citizen Posts
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ZOMBO: As the National Resistance Movement (NRM) primary elections, scheduled for July 2025 draw near, Nega Elizabeth daughter of former Kampala Lord Mayor W.Y. Nega (1965–1968), has unveiled a robust strategy to secure the coveted Zombo District Woman MP seat in the 2026 general elections.
The political landscape in Zombo has reached a boiling point, with over eight aspirants vying for the position, making it one of the most fiercely contested races in the district’s history.
Nega Elizabeth’s Campaign Strategy
Born and raised in Atyak Sub-County, Zombo District, Nega Elizabeth brings a wealth of professional experience and a vision rooted in unity and progress.
Holding an Advanced Diploma in Software Engineering, an Ordinary Diploma in Tourism, and certificates in Procurement, Logistics, and the International Computer Driving License (ICDL), Nega emphasized leveraging her expertise in ICT and tourism to create economic opportunities for Zombo’s constituents.
Addressing the Okoro Constituency Boda Boda Association at Mayor’s Garden in Paidha Town Council on June 11, Nega underscored her commitment to tackling pressing local issues, including poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare facilities, and policies to empower local communities.
“For too long, we have sent leaders who don’t look back. It’s time to elect those who will advocate for our challenges, like the boda boda riders,” she declared, rallying for grassroots support to amplify the electorate’s concerns.
Nega, known for her calm demeanor and signature dark sunglasses, condemned divisive politics and the growing commercialization of electoral processes, which she described as a significant barrier to fair representation.
“It’s about advocacy and continuously tabling the people’s problems where they belong,” she told the association, highlighting her focus on service delivery and accountability.
A Crowded Field of Contenders
The race for the Zombo Woman MP seat, is highly competitive, with over 8 female aspirants seeking the NRM ticket.
Notable candidates include:
Gloria Oroma: Daughter of Paidha’s renowned businessman Jesse Okweda, Oroma boasts a strong grassroots network and is backed by her father’s political influence. She recently urged cultural and religious leaders to remain neutral amid escalating political tensions.
Topista Acamfua: A social worker with a track record of community development through her work with the non-governmental organization DAR, Acamfua is celebrated for her contributions to infrastructure projects, including the Nyagak footbridge connecting Nyapea and Paidha. Known as “the welfare officer,” she poses a significant challenge to the incumbent.
Tasha Giramia Jalar: A media personality with nearly a decade at Paidha FM, Tasha commands a strong public presence but faces the test of translating verbal support into votes in the NRM primaries.
Other aspirants include Fiona Giramia, a radio presenter at Arua’s Access FM; Jane Othora, Zeu Sub-County’s female district councillor.
The unprecedented number of female candidates reflects a growing wave of political engagement among Zombo’s youth, particularly women, in a district that has not seen such a surge since its creation in 2011.
Zombo District, a food basket for northern Uganda with a population of approximately 300,000 grapples with systemic challenges that shape its electoral dynamics.
The rising influence of money in politics has frustrated voters, with candidates backed by financial muscle often gaining an edge. This trend raises concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the ability of grassroots candidates to compete fairly.
The 119-kilometer Nebbi-Paidha-Zombo-Zeu-Warr-Vuura road remains untarmacked, hampering transportation and access to markets. Poor road networks continue to undermine agricultural productivity, a critical issue for a constituency heavily reliant on farming.
The lack of adequate hospitals and healthcare facilities remains a pressing concern and the Voter frustration is mounting over empty pledges by past leaders, particularly regarding infrastructure and service delivery, fueling demand for accountable representation.
Nega Elizabeth’s Background and Political Journey: A seasoned administrator and human resources manager, Nega previously managed a workforce of over 200 employees, honing her skills in organizational leadership and labor rights advocacy. She first entered the political fray during the 2016–2021 elections, gaining traction through grassroots campaigns centered on women’s and youth empowerment.
Her 2026 campaign, under the slogan “Min Gwenu Ma Keyu Dwoku Ingeye” , builds on this foundation, emphasizing inclusive governance and ICT-driven development.
A Christian and mother of two biological children, Nega also fosters additional children and has been active in interfaith dialogue initiatives in Zombo, strengthening her community ties.
Political Climate and the Road Ahead: As the NRM primaries approach, Zombo’s political atmosphere is charged with accusations and counter-accusations among candidates, reflecting the high stakes of the Woman MP race.
The district, a stronghold of NRM support, presents both opportunities and challenges for aspirants like Nega, who must navigate a complex web of voter expectations, financial influence, and entrenched political networks.
With the 2026 general elections looming, Zombo voters are poised to make a critical decision that could reshape the district’s leadership.
Apparently, the ball is in the voters courts to decide whether Nega Elizabeth’s campaign, rooted in advocacy for infrastructure, healthcare, and economic empowerment, positions her as a formidable contender in a race defined by ambition, competition, and the urgent need for transformative leadership.
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