By Patriot Corps
GWERI, 14 August 2024
The political landscape of Gweri County is witnessing a dynamic shift with the entry of Mr. Abel Opolot into the fray for the 2026 parliamentary elections.
A charismatic figure with commitment to public service, Opolot has rapidly garnered the attention and admiration of the electorate, earning the moniker “Honorable” even before the official campaign period has commenced.
Born in 1983 to Mr. Opio Charles and Mrs. Opio Annet in the humble environs of Acuma village, Opolot’s journey is a signal to the power of perseverance and intellect.
From his early days at Pioneer Primary School to his tenure at Teso College Aloet, Opolot exhibited an exceptional aptitude for leadership and academic excellence, eventually securing admission to Makerere University in 2002 to pursue a Bachelor of Urban Planning.
His academic powers was further solidified when he undertook a Postgraduate Diploma in Public Administration at the Uganda Management Institute (UMI) in 2010. Graduating magna cum laude in 2012, Opolot set an unparalleled record at UMI with a CGPA of 5.0, a feat yet to be matched.
His academic brilliance, paired with his tenacity, underscores his suitability for the complex challenges that lie ahead as a potential MP for Gweri County.
Upon completing his undergraduate studies in 2005, Opolot embarked on a career as a licensed English Language teacher, imparting knowledge at Gweri S.S, Jeressar High School, and other reputable institutions in Soroti.
His dedication to education earned him the endearing title of “Mwalimu,” a sign to his impact on the youth of Teso.
In 2008, Opolot transitioned to the public sector, joining the Kaberamaido District Local Government as a Physical Planner. His versatility saw him excel in various roles, including Senior Land Management Officer, Secretary to the District Land Board, and Clerk to Council.
In 2013, Opolot’s expertise was recognized by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), where he currently serves as a Physical Planner. His role at KCCA has been instrumental in shaping urban development policies, reflecting his deep understanding of the intricate balance between development and sustainable land management.
Opolot’s entrepreneurial spirit is equally noteworthy. As the proprietor of several ventures across Teso and Uganda, he has significantly contributed to the education and transportation sectors. His latest foray into value addition, manufacturing, and processing underscores his commitment to pushing economic growth and creating opportunities for his constituents.
His businesses are not just profit-driven but are strategically designed to empower the local communities by providing employment and enhancing local economic structures.
Leadership is deeply ingrained in Opolot’s DNA. As the firstborn of four siblings, he naturally assumed a guiding role within his family. This trait was evident throughout his academic journey, where he consistently stood out as a leader. Notably, he rallied the A-level students of Teso College Aloet against a misguided strike initiated by the O-level students in 2001, demonstrating his capacity for strategic thinking and diplomacy.
His leadership at such a young age speaks volumes about his potential to manage and resolve conflicts within the political arena.
During his time at Makerere University, Opolot continued to hone his leadership skills, serving as the Publicity Secretary for TESDA and as Speaker for the Makerere University Physical Planners Association. These roles provided him with a platform to advocate for student rights and engage in meaningful dialogue on national issues, further preparing him for the political battles that lie ahead.
As Gweri County gears up for the 2026 elections, Opolot Abel emerges as a candidate who embodies a unique blend of experience, intellect, and passion. His witty, humorous, and assertive nature, coupled with his deep-rooted commitment to the people of Gweri, positions him as a transformative contender on the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) ticket.
His campaign is already resonating with the electorate, who see in him a leader capable of not only representing their interests but also advocating for transformative policies that will uplift the entire region.
The road to 2026 is undoubtedly lined with challenges, but with Opolot Abel in the race, the political discourse in Gweri County is set to reach new heights.
The electorate’s decision in 2026 will not merely be a vote for a Member of Parliament; it will be a vote for a visionary leader poised to steer Gweri County towards a brighter future. Opolot’s candidacy signals a turning point in Gweri’s political history—a shift towards leadership that is not just about power but about profound service to the community.
As the countdown to the elections continues, one thing is certain: Abel Opolot is not just a candidate; he is a catalyst for change.