Story by Osuta Yusuf
In an unprecedented political maneuver, a group of 100 ardent National Unity Platform (NUP) members in Yumbe District have defected to the National Resistance Movement (NRM), signaling a seismic shift in the region’s political landscape. This defection, led by the influential Mahad Angudipi Juma, occurred on Saturday, June 8, 2024, during the Ezama Ham Mizamil Thanksgiving Ceremony.
The defection took place at an event celebrating the achievements of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the NRM government, which has been in power since January 26, 1986. Central Division Arua City Deputy Resident City Commissioner, Mr. Ezama Ham Mizamil, who organized the Thanksgiving ceremony, hailed the defection as a monumental victory for the ruling party.
Mahad Angudipi Juma, the mastermind behind this political exodus, attributed their decision to the NRM’s steadfast patriotism, developmental agenda, Pan-Africanism, and socio-economic transformation programs. “We believe in the NRM’s vision for Uganda. It’s time for others in the opposition to understand these principles and join us,” he declared, urging other opposition members to follow suit.
The event’s guest of honor, Mr. Icogor Charles, Resident City Commissioner for Arua City, pledged unwavering support to the new NRM members. He emphasized his commitment to collaborating with the defectors to further weaken the opposition stronghold and fortify the NRM’s presence in the region.
The list of defectors reads like a who’s who of Yumbe’s political sphere. Leaders from various villages, parishes, and sub-counties, such as Gala Nyoko’s Mahad Angudipi Juma and Mambo Manisur from Ojinga, have joined the NRM’s ranks. This extensive list underscores the broad support and significant grassroots influence these defectors wield.
This defection is not just a victory for the NRM but a testament to its growing appeal and strategic prowess in consolidating power. As the political landscape in Yumbe transforms, the NRM’s grip tightens, promising a new era of political dynamics in the West Nile region.
List of Notable Defectors
1. Mahad Angudipi Juma – Gala Nyoko, Kobo Godia, Odravu West
2. Badara Arish – Lururunga, Lulurunga, Arilo
3. Mambo Manisur – Ojinga, Ojinga, Bijo
4. Rashid Dogo Juma – Nyoko Kobo, Godia, Odravu West
5. Tair Juma – East Yumbe, Bilewu, Yumbe Town Council
(The complete list includes 100 prominent members who have joined the NRM.)
This political development marks a turning point, reflecting the NRM’s enduring influence and strategic expansion in Uganda’s political theatre. The future promises more twists and turns as the political chessboard is reset, with the NRM clearly making bold moves to secure its dominance.
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