KOLE, UGANDA – In a significant political development in Kole North County, former parliamentary aspirant Awongo Patrick Ogwal has officially withdrawn his independent candidacy and pledged his full support to the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti.
The announcement, made in a public statement on Monday October 27,2025 follows a contentious NRM primary election which Awongo described as lacking "full transparency and fairness," and which saw him finish in second place.
Outlining his reasons for the reversal, Awongo stated that his decision came after "deep reflection and following the wise counsel of our Party Chairman and President, H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and other senior Party officials." He emphasized that the move was made in the interest of "unity, stability, and the success of our great Party."
"I have decided to step down and not return my nomination in favour of the NRM Party Flag Bearer for Kole North County, Hon. Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti," Awongo declared, signalling an end to a potential intra-party rift.
The former aspirant, who held significant mobilisation roles as the former Coordinator and Chief Whip of the Original Muhoozi Army (later the Patriotic League of Uganda) in Lango, has now committed his political machinery to the broader NRM cause. He vowed to "dedicate my energy, structures, and influence towards mobilising for H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and all NRM flag bearers in Lango Sub-region."
This commitment includes leveraging his existing "MK Movement" structures, which he established before it evolved into the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU).
In his statement, Awongo reaffirmed his "unwavering commitment to the success of the NRM and to the continued transformation of our beloved country under the able leadership of H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni."
This withdrawal is expected to significantly consolidate the NRM vote in Kole North County, clearing a major obstacle for the official party candidate, Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti, and strengthening the party's position in the Lango Sub-region ahead of the general elections.
