By Anzoo Evaline

Adjumani District — Leaders in Adjumani District have issued a strong warning against alleged plans by some groups to disrupt the ongoing recruitment exercise being conducted by the District Service Commission, calling on the public to ignore rumours and allow lawful processes to proceed.

The Adjumani District LCV Chairperson, Hon. Anyama Ben, said he had received information suggesting that some individuals were planning protests aimed at blocking the recruitment of staff. He warned that any attempt to interfere with the exercise would not be tolerated.

Hon. Anyama emphasized that recruitment is a government program meant to improve service delivery and should not be politicized.

“The government belongs to the people. Any attempt to block recruitment will only create unnecessary confusion,” he said, urging security leaders to take charge and ensure order.

He added that although he remained calm during the election period, actions that threaten government operations and stability in the district would be handled firmly, noting that Adjumani has already lost a significant number of development partners.

The Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Mr. Toko Swaib, also warned against stopping the recruitment process, saying it would be detrimental to the district.

Mr. Toko explained that now that the government ban on recruitment has been lifted, all cleared positions must be filled in accordance with the law.

“When the Ministry of Public Service clears positions, it means a wage bill has been provided. Failure to recruit means the district risks losing that money,” the RDC said.

He acknowledged public concerns over why fewer positions were advertised compared to those cleared by the Ministry of Public Service, saying this had fueled suspicion among members of the public.

According to the RDC, the district leadership needs to clearly explain issues related to regularization and wage bill utilization to avoid misinformation and unnecessary tension.

Meanwhile, the Chairperson of the Adjumani District Service Commission, Mr. Amajuru Simon, clarified that the commission only advertises and recruits’ positions formally requested by the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).

“The District Service Commission recruits strictly based on requests from the CAO’s office. We do not advertise positions on our own,” Amajuru said.

He revealed that the current recruitment targets critical service areas, including specialized medical personnel such as surgeons, associate consultants including gynaecologists and psychologists, pharmacists, nurses, midwives, teachers, procurement officers, and other essential staff.

Mr. Amajuru encouraged all qualified applicants to submit their applications before the deadline of 19th February, assuring the public that the recruitment will follow established public service guidelines.

“Recruitment is about improving service delivery, not selling jobs. There is zero tolerance to corruption. Applicants should not give bribes,” he warned.

District leaders jointly appealed to the public to remain calm, disregard rumours, and allow the recruitment process to proceed peacefully in the interest of development and improved service delivery in Adjumani District.

Leaders in Adjumani District have issued a strong warning over reports that some groups are planning to disrupt the ongoing recruitment exercise by the District Service Commission.

The Adjumani District LCV Chairperson, Honourable Anyama Ben, says he has received information that certain individuals want to protest and block the recruitment of staff. He warns that such actions will not be tolerated, saying recruitment is a government program meant to improve service delivery.

Honourable Anyama cautions that any attempt to interfere with the process will create unnecessary confusion and calls on security agencies to take charge and maintain order in the district.

Meanwhile, the Resident District Commissioner of Adjumani, Mr. Toko Swaib, says recruitment must not be stopped at any cost, now that the government ban on recruitment has been lifted.

The RDC explains that when the Ministry of Public Service clears positions, it also provides a wage bill, and failure to recruit would mean the district risks losing that money.

However, Mr. Toko acknowledges public concern over why fewer positions were advertised compared to those cleared by public service, noting that this has raised suspicion among members of the public. He says the district leadership must clearly explain issues related to regularization and wage bill management to avoid misinformation.

The Chairperson of the Adjumani District Service Commission, Mr. Amajuru Simon, has clarified that the commission only recruits based on formal requests submitted by the Chief Administrative Officer’s office.

Mr. Amajuru says the current recruitment targets critical positions, including specialized doctors such as surgeons, associate consultants, pharmacists, nurses, midwives, teachers, procurement officers, and other key staff.

He encourages all qualified applicants to apply before the deadline of 19th February, assuring the public that the recruitment process will strictly follow public service guidelines.

Mr. Amajuru also warns applicants against corruption, saying jobs are not for sale and that there is zero tolerance for bribery.

District leaders are now appealing to the public to remain calm, ignore rumors, and allow the recruitment process to proceed peacefully for the benefit of service delivery in Adjumani District

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By Bazio Doreen.

The Ministry of Health has officially rolled out the National Self-Care Interventions Program in Adjumani District, as part of an effort to integrate its guidelines as a key priority into the district work plan.

According to the Ministry, this is the first phase of implementation in one of ten districts selected nationwide, in line with the 2024 Uganda’s National Self-Care Guidelines.

While making opening remarks at the launch that took place at the District Council on Wednesday 11^th February 2026, Richard Edema, the Principal Assistant Chief Administrative Officer, observed that the move would help the district to empower not only the staff but the communities to take charge of their own health and wellbeing.

“A healthy population is a productive population. When people take responsibility for their health, they contribute positively to development and economic growth in the district,” he said.

On his part, Dr. Dominic Drametu, District Health Officer, urged residents to embrace healthy lifestyles and take exercise as a personal habit.

“Do physical and natural exercises instead of the gym. Some diseases are due to age,” he said.

Indeed, John Sabuni, the Secretary for Health, linked poor self-care practices to preventable deaths, including road accidents emphasizing that people must be responsible for their own safety and health.

Meanwhile, Roseline Achola, a Technical Advisor for Sexual Reproductive Health and Family Planning at the Ministry of Health, said the program targets both individual and community responsibility for health.

“Self-care interventions promote health, prevent disease, and help people cope with illness and disability, with or without direct support from health workers,” she explained.

The program is expected to reduce pressure on health facilities by promoting preventive and community-based practices as well as strengthen coordination among partners and improve the delivery of preventive and promotive health services across Adjumani.

The guideline on self-care interventions for health and well-being encompasses combined efforts to (i) improve antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal care; (ii) provide high-quality services for family planning, including infertility services; (iii) eliminate unsafe abortion; (iv) combat sexually transmitted infections (including HIV), reproductive tract infections, cervical cancer and other gynecological morbidities; (v) promote sexual health; and (vi) address non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

For decades, Uganda’s health system has largely focused on curative care, emphasizing hospital treatment and medicine availability once illness strikes. But with nearly 33 million cases treated in health facilities last year alone, in a country of about 46 million people, authorities say that many of these conditions could have been avoided through prevention at community level.

The Ministry has developed the Self-Care Uganda App, currently available on Android, offering guidance on family planning, nutrition, HIV management, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs), alongside referral options where necessary.

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By Anzoo Evaline.

Government-aided Primary Schools in Adjumani District have registered a strong turnout of both learners and teachers as schools officially reopened for the first term on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

Head teachers from various government schools described the attendance as encouraging, with lessons already underway, while some private schools reported a slower response and expressed hope that more pupils will report in the coming days.

At St. Peter’s Nursery and Primary School, Headteacher Iwama Zachariah said the school had registered a total of 715 pupils, including 305 girls and 410 boys, describing the turnout as good.

“By tomorrow and the next day, I expect all the learners who have registered to fully report. The turnout is good, learners are studying well, and all teachers are present. There is no teacher absent,” Iwama said.

He attributed the smooth start to early mobilization efforts through radio announcements and direct communication with School Management Committee (SMC) members and PTA executives, who helped sensitize parents.

Meanwhile, at Adjumani Girls’ Primary School, Deputy Headteacher Olima Lawrence reported an impressive day-one attendance of 929 learners, comprising 432 girls and 497 boys. He added that all 24 teachers, including government and PTA-paid staff, were present and teaching had already begun.

“My appeal to parents who have not yet registered their children is to hurry up because lessons have already started. The worst affected will be the learners who miss class,” Olima urged.

However, the situation was slightly different in some private schools. At Redeemer Children’s Primary School, Headteacher Sr. Mary Magdalene said although learners had started reporting, the turnout was lower than usual for the first day.

“We received 531 learners today, but generally the turnout is low compared to previous terms. Many parents are still coming to register, possibly due to financial challenges,” she explained.

Education stakeholders in the district say while government schools have shown a promising start, continued sensitization is needed to encourage parents to ensure all children report to school early and do not miss valuable learning time.

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By Anzoo Evaline.

Leaders in Adjumani and Moyo districts have raised concern over unstable electricity power supply during stakeholder’s engagement in Adjumani district cautioning the office of the Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited (UEDCL LTD) to address the challenges affecting consumers in the two districts.

Hon. Mangapi Lawrence, the LCIII Adjumani Town Council, expressed dissatisfaction with the low power voltage in Adjumani town, saying it is affecting small and medium industries that support the local economy.

“My concern is you have brought for us power and this power is not supporting sufficiently in town. Why? Because we have got small and medium industries around and this small and medium industries supports us so much in terms of multiplying money in this town. And now your power voltage is so low,” he said.

He added that Adjumani is almost at the border and has many interests, describing the town as now a metropolitan that needs stable and strong electricity to boost the economy.

“Please increase your power voltage. We need our industries to flourish so that our economy here is boosted,” Hon. Mangapi urged.

He also questioned the type of electricity poles being installed, saying the current pine poles are weak compared to the eucalyptus poles used in the past.

“The electricity poles you people are giving us are these poles made out of pines. And those days when we were young, the poles that are made are out of eucalyptus. Don’t we have eucalyptus now in Uganda? Why are you people interested only in pine poles and yet they are weak? Let’s get back to eucalyptus,” he said.

Hon. Dramwi Ceaser, LCIII Laropi Sub County, proposed a shift from wooden poles to concrete poles, arguing that bush fires are not hot enough to destroy concrete structures.

“Now the poles the temperature of heat that can destroy Concretes are not the one from bush fire it is much more that. So, we should advocate for changes of poles from this wooden pole to Concretes. If it can be done in other places, why not here?” he asked.

Hon. Kaijuka Arthur Richard, the District Vice Chairperson, also questioned the frequent power shutdowns whenever weather conditions change.

“When it is about to rain and the weather is critically changed, power automatically is switched off. Does the electricity in Adjumani and a Moyo behaves like hippopotamuses? Though they stay in the water but they don’t want rain water,” he said.

He further wondered about the difference between the poles used in the 80s and those used in the 2000s, noting that older poles could withstand nearby fires.

“I well remember the poles in the 80s even if fire passes nearby it doesn’t catch fire. But these days the poles easily get the fire we are seeing. What is the difference? Don’t we think it is what is you are using that’s killing the poles?” he asked.

In his response, Noeline Biribonwa, the Senior Stakeholders and Engagement Officer UEDCL, defended the use of concrete poles and called on the public to report power challenges.

“Concrete poles. Concrete poles. We have concrete poles. We have called the network. But remember constant subjection to fire. It’s not once in a month but constant subjection will cause an error at the end of the day,” she said.

She urged residents not to keep quiet whenever there is low voltage or other supply issues.

“When you are off, report. Don’t keep quiet. When you keep quiet, we only monitor this high voltage. That is what is on our schedule. The moment it goes off, I get alert. But when it is on low voltage, that one that supplies your home. Unless you say it, we shall not know. So, do the reporting,” she advised.

The leaders now want UEDCL LTD to improve power voltage, review the type of poles being installed, and ensure stable electricity supply to support development and economic growth in Moyo and Adjumani districts.

END.

By Onzima Allan

Adjumani District, Uganda | February 2026 — The Madi Paramount Chief, HRH Opi Suru Simon Baru, has appealed for peace, reconciliation and unity among the people of Adjumani District in the aftermath of the 2026 general elections.

In a public address this week, the cultural leader called on residents to put aside political differences and work together for the good of the community. The message comes as the district transitions from a competitive election season to a period of governance and development.

The Paramount Chief said, “We must not allow elections to divide us as a people. Let our differences be a cause for dialogue, not discord.” He stressed that the integrity of family and community relationships should be upheld even when political views differ.

“Let us work together in unity and peace, for the future of our children and the progress of this district,” he added, appealing to both supporters and opponents of various candidates to respect one another and focus on shared goals of prosperity.

The Paramount Chief also reminded leaders and residents alike that the strength of the community lies in cooperation rather than division.

“In unity we find strength; in peace we find progress,” he said.

His call for unity underscores ongoing efforts to encourage post-election reconciliation across the country following the January polls, which saw citizens participate in both presidential and parliamentary contests.

Community leaders have welcomed the Paramount Chief’s message, saying it reinforces longstanding traditions of peace and mutual respect in the region.

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By Bazio Doreen.

As the dust settles on Uganda’s 2026 elections, a result from Adjumani District tells us more about the nation’s political DNA than any headline-grabbing presidential ballot ever could. The re-election of General Moses Ali as MP for Adjumani West isn’t merely a local affair; it is a master class in the enduring realities of power, patronage, and historical memory in our country. At a moment when analysts scramble to decode “new” trends, this outcome is a stark reminder of the old rules that still govern us.

Let’s be clear: in 2026, this was never a contest about fresh ideologies or generational change. It was a referendum on a singular, unparalleled political brand—that of the ultimate survivor. While other constituencies debated manifesto points, Adjumani voted on a 50-year relationship. They voted for “Kiligbwiki,” the patriarch whose name is stamped on boreholes, health centres, and gravel roads. In an era of economic anxiety, the potent currency of proven patronage, delivered through decades of high-office access, trumped all else.

This victory is a direct product of the NRM’s core architecture. The party machinery, with its deep reliance on established hierarchies and reward for loyalty, didn’t just back Gen. Ali; it validated his entire political model. His re-election is a signal to every aspiring politician: in this system, unwavering allegiance and the ability to consistently deliver tangible goods to your base remain the golden tickets. The message from the top seems clear: longevity and loyalty are not just valued; they are vindicated at the ballot box, regardless of a candidate’s proximity to a century of life.

But we must not look away from the deeper, more uncomfortable conversation this win forces upon us. As Uganda marches further into the 21st century, what does it mean that a figure so intrinsically linked to its most turbulent 20th-century chapters continues to wield such direct electoral power? For critics, it’s a troubling testament to a political culture that prioritizes transactional stability over transformative accountability. It whispers that certain types of pasts can be not just reconciled but eternally leveraged.

Yet, to dismiss this as a simple moral failing is to misunderstand the electorate. For the people of Adjumani, the abstract debates of history are less pressing than the concrete realities of a water source or a clinic. Gen. Ali’s narrative of personal redemption and relentless focus on local development resonates powerfully. He has mastered the art of being a national symbol in Kampala and a local patron at home. In 2026, his opponents couldn’t crack that code.

So, what does this mean for the coming parliamentary term? Don’t expect radical shifts. This is a legacy-cementing chapter. We will likely see a final, focused push on constituency projects and a careful orchestration of political succession. In the cabinet, his voice will remain one of experienced, conservative caution—a living link to the past, informing the politics of the present.

The true takeaway from Moses Ali’s 2026 triumph is this: while Uganda’s demographics may be young, its political rhythms are still dictated by enduring forces of continuity, patronage, and complex, personal historical narratives. In a noisy election cycle, the quiet, resounding win of an 80-something-year-old general is the loudest commentary of all. It tells us that in understanding where Uganda is going, we cannot afford to ignore the long shadows cast by those who have, in every sense of the word, endured.

The views expressed in this opinion article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of this publication.

By Bazio Doreen.

At least 111 applicants passed Division One out of the 5,896 students who took the 2025 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) in Adjumani District, including both citizens and refugees. Of these, 33 were girls and 78 were boys, making up 1.9% of all candidates.

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) issued the PLE 2025 divisional distribution chart, which shows that 1,502 candidates including 931 boys and 571 girls passed in Division Two, making up 25.8% of the total. In Division Three, 1,907 candidate including 1,094 boys and 813 girls passed, accounting for 32.7% of the total.

Meanwhile, 1,008 candidates (17.3%) received Division Four (568 males and 440 females), and 1,297 candidates (22.3%) received Division U (594 males and 703 females). An additional 71 applicants including 35 boys and 36 girls, or 1.2% of the total obtained Division X.

In order to address the declining performance of students in the region on national exams, West Nile leaders are now advocating for increased affirmative action.

West Nile, which consists of 13 districts, one city, and two municipalities, had just 886 candidates pass in Division 1 from 46,926 candidates, with the remainder going into other divisions like 2, 3, 4, and X.

The West Nile results show Arua City leading with 363 first-grade candidates, followed by Adjumani District with 111, Koboko with 98, Yumbe with 63, Maracha with 47, Pakwach with 38, Moyo with 35, Terego with 31, Nebbi Municipality with 26, Zombo with 25, Nebbi District with 24, Arua District with 13, and Koboko District with 10 first grades.

The teachers’ strike from the previous year, unfavorable learning conditions, and other issues have been blamed by stakeholders for the subpar results.

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By Onzima Allan

ADJUMANI DISTRICT, UGANDA — Nine students have successfully completed a Quran-reading programme and received certificates in a graduation ceremony held in Adjumani District.

The event, attended by parents, local leaders and members of the community, celebrated the achievements of the students who spent months learning and memorizing chapters of the Holy Quran.

Addressing the graduates, Sheikh Rashid Kelele Yunus, the District Khadi under the Kibuli Supreme Mufti, who oversaw the programme said, “Today we mark a significant milestone in your Islamic education. May your knowledge guide you and benefit your families and our community.”

Zainab Nasur, one of the parents praised the initiative, saying, “This graduation is a proud moment for all of us. We thank the teachers for their dedication and the students for their hard work.”

The ceremony included recitations from the Quran by the graduates themselves, showcasing their proficiency and commitment to religious studies.

Local religious leaders encouraged the young graduates to continue learning and to use their knowledge to promote peace, unity and respect within the district.

The event reflects ongoing efforts in Adjumani to support youth education in both secular and religious disciplines.

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By Bazio Doreen

Adjumani, Uganda | January 2026 — Hon. John Anyanzo Ambayo has been elected Local Council Five (LCV) Chairperson of Adjumani District after a highly competitive campaign and voting process in the 2026 local government elections. Ambayo’s victory signals a new leadership phase for the district, with fresh promises around governance, development, and service delivery.

According to final results released by the Adjumani District Returning Officer, Christine Akao, Hon. Ambayo garnered 33,289 votes to top the race, compared with 29,061 votes for incumbent Hon. Anyama, who ran as an independent candidate following his loss in the ruling party’s primary contest. The margin of roughly 4,200 votes illustrated how tightly fought the contest was and reflected robust participation by local voters.

Profiles of Key Challengers

Hon. John Anyanzo Ambayo (Winner)

Ambayo, a seasoned local politician and former district speaker, built his campaign on a platform of unity, strengthened district governance, and alignment with national development programmes. His leadership credentials draw on years of engagement in local affairs and deep networks within municipal and party structures.

Hon. Ben Anyama (Incumbent)

The outgoing LCV chair, Ben Anyama, had previously overseen the district’s administration, emphasizing improvements in basic services and infrastructure. After losing the NRM nomination, he pursued an independent bid, attracting significant support from voters satisfied with his service record. Anyama’s decision to concede and call for a peaceful transition helped to moderate post-election tensions.

Richard AP Akuku (NRM Primary Contender)

Akuku, another party stalwart, contested the NRM primary alongside Anyama and Ambayo. Though he did not secure the nomination, his involvement in the race helped shape key policy discussions, particularly around youth engagement and inclusive governance.

A fourth potential contender, Solomon Agwe, had initially entered the race but withdrew before the NRM primary and endorsed Ambayo, citing concerns over governance under the incumbent. Agwe’s endorsement helped sharpen Ambayo’s profile among certain voter groups.

NRM Primaries: A Crucial Stepping Stone

The road to the general election began with the NRM party primaries in mid-2025. In that contest, Ambayo emerged as the party’s flag bearer for the LCV chairperson position, defeating both Anyama and Akuku in a spirited internal race. Despite occasional tensions and isolated reports of clashes during the primaries, the process marked a key early test of organizational support for the candidates.

The primaries themselves were a microcosm of local political dynamics, with heightened interest from party members and observers. The results provided a platform for Ambayo to mobilize broader support in the general election and underscored shifting patterns within the district’s political landscape.

Contrast with the Outgoing Leadership

Interestedly, Anyama’s tenure focused on consolidating district systems and delivering infrastructure projects. His independent bid after losing the NRM ticket underlined both his local support base and the complexities of party politics at the grassroots.

On the other hand, Ambayo’s mandate centres on institutional collaboration and stronger synergy between local government and national development priorities. His victory also reflects deeper party organization strength and suggests confidence among key constituencies in his vision.

Voter Engagement and Turnout

With nearly 99,000 registered voters across Adjumani’s nine sub-counties and two town councils, the LCV election saw a significant level of participation and competitive campaigning. Prior to the vote, observers reported heightened security presence amid concerns over bribery and sporadic violence, underscoring the stakes involved in local governance contests.

In contrast to previous electoral periods, the 2026 cycle has also mirrored national trends in voter mobilization, with substantial engagement across both presidential and local government races. According to national summaries, President Yoweri Museveni was re-elected with 71% of the national vote in the concurrent general election — a result that set the broader political tone across districts like Adjumani.

Looking Ahead: Priorities and Expectations

As Hon. Anyanzo prepares to take office, priorities among constituents include improving health service delivery, expanding rural infrastructure, and deepening collaboration between district authorities and central government agencies. Civil society groups and local leaders have emphasized the importance of accountability and inclusive governance, urging the new administration to translate campaign promises into measurable outcomes.

The transition from an independent-aligned incumbent to an NRM-backed chairperson also raises questions about the future role of party structures in local development planning and resource mobilization — a theme that will likely shape political discourse in Adjumani through the next term.

END

By Bazio Doreen.

Dzaipi Sub-County, Adjumani District | A vehicle belonging to the Adjumani Town Council Local Council III (LC III) Chairperson, Hon. Lawrence Mangapi, was set on fire in a heated confrontation in Dzaipi Sub-County, reflecting rising post-election tensions in the district.

In a widely shared video captured at the scene, the LC III chairperson’s car is shown engulfed in flames amid chaotic scenes involving local residents. The footage, which has circulated on social media and messaging platforms, documents the dramatic escalation of political unrest following Uganda’s recent elections.

What Happened?

According to police and eyewitness accounts, Hon. Mangapi, visited the home of Dulu Angel Mark, the National Resistance Movement (NRM)candidate for the Adjumani East County Parliamentary seat, who had recently lost the election.

What was reported by some as a kind gesture aimed at offering condolence and fostering unity quickly turned confrontational when a group of supporters confronted Mangapi and members of his entourage. During the ensuing confrontation, Mangapi and his companions were reportedly injured, and his vehicle — registration number UBR 018F — was torched.

Police in the district, under the leadership of Adjumani District Commander Herbert Masembe, later intervened to restore calm and launched an investigation to ascertain those responsible. North West Nile regional police spokesperson Collins Aseaappealed for restraint among residents as the inquiry continues.

Political Context in Adjumani.

Adjumani District has seen a tense political climate in the lead-up to and aftermath of the 2026 elections. The parliamentary race in Adjumani East saw an independent candidate, James Mamawi, defeat the NRM flag bearer Dulu Angel Mark, securing 18,149 votes against Mark’s 14,682.

The district’s LC V chairperson race also generated conflict in late 2025, with clashes reported between supporters of rival candidates, Ben Anyama (independent) and John Anyanzo Ambayo (NRM), including alleged attacks and motorcycle seizures.

These incidents signal growing political friction in Adjumani, where local elections — once relatively peaceful — have lately been accompanied by sporadic violence, disputes, and public disorder. Authorities have repeatedly called on residents and political actors to restrain from violent behavior and allow democratic processes to unfold without disruption.

Voices from the Ground.

In response to the Dzaipi incident, Dulu Angel Mark described the events as a misunderstanding. He said that as Mangapi and his delegation were arriving with symbolic gifts of goodwill, tensions escalated after Mangapi’s phone received calls from other leaders, which some supporters misinterpreted.

Chairperson Mangapi, for his part, emphasized that the visit was part of post-election engagement efforts aimed at reconciliation and unityamong local leaders. He dismissed rumors about unusual gifts, reaffirming the intent to promote dialogue across political divides.

Looking Ahead.

As investigations continue, local leaders and law enforcement are urging communities in Adjumani to embrace peace and allow room for political differences without resorting to violence. With multiple elections influencing both parliamentary and local leadership positions in the district, tensions may persist unless proactive engagement and unity efforts are prioritized.

Adjumani’s experience reflects broader challenges in Uganda’s local governance landscape — where political competition can quickly spill over into public disorder without robust conflict-resolution mechanisms and community dialogue.

END.