By Nathan Eyagu 

SOROTI - Soroti City west's political landscape has been thrown into disarray with the unexpected announcement of Okoit George William’s return to the political arena.

Known for his business acumen and previous political experience, Okoit has officially declared his candidacy for City Councilor in the Western Division for the upcoming 2026 elections, leaving his rivals scrambling to reassess their strategies.

After the 2021 elections, Okoit had made it clear that his focus would shift entirely to business, steering away from the political spotlight. His departure from the political scene was seen as a win for his opponents, who viewed his absence as an opportunity to solidify their influence in the Western Division. However, Okoit’s re-entry has caught everyone off guard, sending shockwaves through the local political circles.

Okoit’s return is not just a mere comeback; it is fuelled by a renewed sense of duty and an unshakable vision for unity, effective representation, and community growth. He is determined to reshape the future of the Western Division, leveraging his rich experience in both business and politics to bring about meaningful change.

"I initially stepped away to focus on my business ventures, but my commitment to the people of the Western Division never wavered," Okoit revealed in his announcement. "The strength of our division lies in our diversity and the collective spirit of our residents. It’s time for leadership that truly represents our collective voice and takes us forward."

Central to Okoit’s campaign is his unwavering promise to foster unity across the division. He intends to champion initiatives that not only celebrate the diverse backgrounds of the community but also cultivate a strong sense of belonging among all residents. His message is clear: the division's diversity is its greatest asset, and Okoit is committed to ensuring that this diversity is celebrated and harnessed for the collective good.

"Our strength lies in our diversity,” Okoit emphasised. "I’m here to bring people together, to build bridges, and to ensure that every resident feels included in our community’s progress."

But unity is just the beginning. Okoit is also focused on effective representation, a core pillar of his campaign. He has pledged to be an accessible, transparent, and accountable leader—qualities that many feel have been lacking in recent years. Okoit has vowed that under his leadership, the voices and concerns of all residents will be at the forefront of every decision made on the City Council.

"I will be accessible, transparent, and accountable," Okoit assured voters. "This community deserves a representative who not only listens but understands and acts on the needs of the people."

In addition to unity and representation, Okoit is advocating for significant improvements in community services, which he believes are crucial to enhancing the quality of life in the Western Division. His campaign will focus on better infrastructure, enhanced public safety, and expanded community programs, all designed to create a brighter future for the next generation.

"I will prioritise policies that improve our daily lives and create a better future for our children,” Okoit affirmed, his words resonating with a community eager for progress.

As Okoit’s campaign gains momentum, the excitement and anticipation in the Western Division are palpable. His rivals, once confident in their hold on the electorate, are now faced with a formidable contender who has both the vision and the support to turn the tide.

Okoit has extended an open invitation to the residents of Western Division to join him on this transformative journey. He is eager to engage with the community, gather ideas, and work collaboratively to achieve the shared goal of a prosperous, united, and thriving division.

The 2026 elections are shaping up to be a pivotal moment for Soroti City, and with Okoit George William back in the game, the stakes have never been higher.