By Esiolo Timothy
Soroti, Uganda — On 7th Nov 2024. National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders and supporters held a press conference in Teso to announce the upcoming visit of NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, scheduled for November 9 at Arrow Square in Soroti. Attended by regional leaders including Mr. Okoit George, Ocailap Micheal (NUP Publicity Secretary for Katakwi), Ikomu Yayeri (Soroti City Registrar and Youth Coordinator), Moses Ongodia (Vice Chairperson of the Mobilization Committee, Soroti City), and Mr. Elupe (Chairperson of Soroti District), the event served as a call for Teso residents to participate in this landmark occasion.
Jerry Okello, spokesperson for Teso, emphasized that the NUP president’s visit aims to bring light to the issues faced by the region. “The purpose of this presser is to inform the general public that President Kyagulanyi is coming to consult with the people of Teso. We need to voice how Teso was stripped of its wealth, from the loss of our cattle to the challenges with the meat packing factory and the Teso Fruit Factory, which does not purchase local produce. We urge everyone to attend so that we can bring our concerns directly to the president, and should NUP take power, he will be fully aware of Teso’s pressing matters,” Okello stated.
Okware Jonathan, the NUP party mobilizer and coordinator for Teso and Kumam, called on the public to attend, adding, “We welcome everyone to attend the president’s visit or tune in on Radio Veritas to stay updated. We’ve ensured that there will be no security threats as we have coordinated closely with authorities to guarantee a peaceful event.”
The press conference also highlighted the importance of youth involvement. Ikomu Yayeri, Soroti City’s Youth Leader, urged the youth from across the Teso districts to take part. “NUP is a platform for the youth, and we encourage all young people in Teso to engage in national issues,” Yayeri stated, emphasizing the role of young voices in shaping Uganda’s future.
Mr. Okoit George, a key NUP stakeholder, applauded Kyagulanyi’s leadership, calling it a symbol of sacrifice for oppressed Ugandans. “His Excellency Kyagulanyi could have accepted bribes and taken an easy path, but instead he stood up for ordinary Ugandans, the ghetto people, and the oppressed. We ask the people of Teso to come and discuss the issues affecting them so the president can address them.”
Okoit concluded by reminding attendees to comply with security measures in place at Arrow Square to ensure a harmonious gathering. With anticipation building, the NUP leaders and supporters expressed hope that this visit would be a pivotal moment for Teso as it looks to address its grievances and seek pathways toward prosperity.
