OYAM, UGANDA – The Oyam Woman Member of Parliament, Santa Alum Ogwang, has made a resolute vow to continue her financial and material support to local churches, despite facing criticism from her political opponents for doing so.
The defiant declaration was made on Friday during a campaign rally in Aber Sub-County, where Alum addressed what she termed as "bad talk" from her rivals regarding her philanthropic efforts towards religious institutions.
"I know some of my opponents are talking bad about my support to churches," Alum told a gathered crowd. "They are saying it’s not the work of an MP to support churches. But I want to tell you today that I will not be shaken. I will continue to support the church."
The MP justified her stance by emphasizing the central role of faith in her life and work. "God is always the beginning of everything," she stated. "It is always good when I pray together with my fellow women in the church. That fellowship and faith are the foundation upon which we build our community."
Alum's remarks came on the heels of a public accountability session at the rally, where numerous beneficiaries from various churches attested to her contributions. These testimonies detailed her assistance in church construction, provision of amenities, and other forms of support, solidifying her reputation as a patron of the local faith community.
The public acknowledgment seemed to strengthen her resolve, using the platform to directly counter the narrative of her detractors.
Voters in Aber Sub-County who attended the rally confirmed their unwavering support for the legislator. Many expressed appreciation for her hands-on approach to community support, stating that her assistance to churches has had a tangible impact on the social and spiritual well-being of the constituency.
The issue has now become a key point of distinction in the political landscape of Oyam, pitting Alum's faith-based development approach against a more secular view of a legislator's role. For now, MP Santa Alum Ogwang remains steadfast, betting that her alliance with the church will secure her a more powerful mandate than the criticism of her opponents.
