Aromo Sub-county, Erute North – Major (Rtd) Emmy Johnson Opio, a respected veteran and community leader, has officially declared his political intentions for Erute North under the bold slogan of “Politics and Hoe”. Addressing residents of Odoro and Apua parishes in Aromo Sub-county on Thursday, Opio called on voters to rally behind a leadership of vision, values, and action.
Opio outlined three major pillars of his campaign: ending hatred and division, promoting education, and eradicating poverty through agricultural transformation.
“People in Lango are hating each other without reason. I have come to remove that burden of hatred and to unite our communities,” said Major Opio, drawing applause from the crowd.
A longtime advocate of education, Opio proudly shared that he has already established a successful nursery and primary school. He now plans to construct a quality secondary school in Erute North and introduce a regional center for typing and exam preparation for all schools in the area.
In his most ambitious proposal yet, Major Opio announced his plan to fight poverty by distributing 500,000 cocoa seedlings and 500,000 coffee seedlings to households across Erute North in 2026.
“Giving seedlings is like giving a hook and teaching someone how to fish. It is better than giving fish, which is not sustainable,” Opio explained, using a powerful metaphor to underline the long-term impact of his initiative.
He also emphasized the value of sustainable cash crops like cocoa, coffee, and vanilla as key tools for wealth creation in the region.
Opio called on voters to hold all politicians accountable and demand clear and realistic manifestos, not just empty promises or handouts.
“Let us not allow anyone to buy our votes. Ask them to show you what they will do,” he urged.
Community members expressed strong support for his message. Hellen Awor from Odoro Parish praised Opio for focusing on development rather than bribery.
“Politicians should know that they can’t buy our votes. We need their plans. I thank Major Opio for bringing cocoa and teaching us how to plant. That will change our lives forever,” she said.
Tonny Ojok, another resident, echoed this sentiment.
“What Major Opio has brought – the cocoa seedlings and ideas – is far better than any money other politicians might bring,” he said.
As Erute North looks ahead to the 2026 elections, Major Opio’s campaign is already setting itself apart – not with promises of quick fixes, but with a clear strategy rooted in education, agriculture, and unity.
