LIRA – Former Alebtong District Chairperson aspirant, Patrick Opige Okwel, has officially announced his candidacy for Lira City Mayor in the upcoming elections. Speaking today, Opige Okwel cited growing insecurity, harassment of small business owners, poor garbage management, and frequent power blackouts as key challenges affecting the people of Lira.
“I contested for Chairperson Five of Alebtong in 2016 but did not win. Today, I want to confirm that I am running for Lira City Mayor because of the insecurity in our city. Nowadays, people cannot move freely at night between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, which is unacceptable,” he stated.
Tackling Business Harassment and Economic Challenges
Opige Okwel also decried the increasing harassment of small-scale traders by city law enforcement officers, who often confiscate their goods despite their struggles to make ends meet.
“Our small business owners are suffering. Many of them have loans to pay, and yet the city authorities grab their items instead of supporting them. As mayor, I will ensure that small businesses thrive without unnecessary harassment,” he pledged.
A Cleaner Lira City with International Partnerships
The mayoral aspirant further revealed his plan to improve waste management in Lira City. He stated that he had already engaged mayors from Hong Kong and North Korea, who are willing to provide modern garbage management solutions.
“I have talked to the mayor of Hong Kong and another in North Korea to help us manage garbage. They have promised to give us a special truck that can crush waste and turn it into humus. This will improve cleanliness and create opportunities for organic farming,” he said.
Addressing Power Blackouts to Support Businesses
Frequent power outages in Lira City have been a major concern, especially for businesses that rely on electricity. Opige Okwel promised to work closely with relevant authorities to ensure a more reliable power supply.
“Many businesses depend on electricity, and these constant blackouts are affecting their income. We need a permanent solution to power instability in Lira,” he emphasized.
Call for Youthful Leadership
Concluding his announcement, Opige Okwel urged the people of Lira City to support a youthful leader who understands their struggles and is ready to bring practical solutions.
“Lira City needs a dynamic leader who can engage local and international partners to solve our problems. I am ready to serve and deliver,” he declared.
As the race for Lira City Mayor heats up, all eyes will be on Patrick Opige Okwel’s campaign and how his promises resonate with voters.
