By Jackson Eyalama

Katakwi District – The race for Katakwi District’s Woman Member of Parliament (MP) seat is set to become one of the most closely watched contests in the 2026 general elections as former woman MP Hon. Violet Akurut Adome, a prominent political figure in the district, has officially declared her candidacy. Known widely as Amorimori, Akurut will square off against the incumbent, Vice President Jessica Alupo, in a high-stakes electoral showdown.

This announcement marks the beginning of what promises to be a fierce political rivalry, with Akurut aiming to unseat Vice President Alupo, who has held the Woman MP position for Katakwi for a number of years. Alupo, who also serves as Uganda’s Vice President, has garnered considerable political influence both locally and nationally. 

In her declaration speech, Akurut, who currently serves as the Vice Chairperson of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in Katakwi District, emphasized that her decision to run was motivated by a desire to bring meaningful change to the region. “I am seeking your support and collaboration as I run for the position of Woman MP for Katakwi District,” Akurut said. 

The upcoming election presents a significant challenge for Akurut, who will face off against Alupo, a seasoned politician with an established track record in the district. Alupo’s tenure as the Woman MP has been marked by her active role in Uganda’s national government, where she has served in various influential capacities, including as Minister of State for Education and Sports.

Alupo’s standing as Vice President has only amplified her political influence, and her popularity in Katakwi remains strong, bolstered by her national stature and support from key political figures. Despite Akurut’s local appeal, Alupo’s enduring influence has made her a formidable competitor.

Akurut’s Previous Loss to Alupo

The rivalry between Akurut and Alupo is not new. The two first clashed in the 2021 general elections, where Akurut sought to challenge Alupo for the Woman MP seat. Despite a vigorous campaign, Akurut was defeated, with Alupo’s national profile and political leverage playing a pivotal role in her victory. Though the defeat was a setback, Akurut did not withdraw from public life. Instead, she continued to remain active in the community and national politics, reaffirming her commitment to the people of Katakwi.

Akurut previously served as the Woman MP for Katakwi District between 2016 and 2021, during which she worked on various projects aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education in the district. Her tenure was marked by a strong commitment to addressing local issues, although she faced considerable challenges. Despite her efforts, she was unable to retain her seat in the 2021 elections, when Vice President Alupo emerged victorious.

Voter Sentiment and the Road to 2026

The political rivalry between Akurut and Alupo has sparked significant interest among voters in Katakwi, with opinions divided on which candidate is best suited to address the district’s pressing needs. As the election approaches, issues such as education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure development are expected to dominate the discourse.

With both candidates offering distinct visions for the future of Katakwi, the election will be a defining moment for the district. Voters will soon face a crucial decision: continue with the established leadership under Vice President Alupo or embrace the new direction proposed by Akurut.

In a message to her supporters, Akurut expressed her gratitude and determination. “I want to thank all my supporters of Katakwi. Today, on this special day, March 10, 2025, I am announcing my candidacy as the Woman MP for Katakwi District in the next general elections,” she stated. “I will first participate in the party primaries of the NRM, as I am currently the flag bearer. Above all, as the Vice Chairperson of the NRM in Katakwi, I am calling on your support and collaboration so that together, we can work for the betterment of Katakwi District.”

The contest for the Woman MP seat in Katakwi District is shaping up to be one of the most consequential elections in the region, with both Akurut and Alupo preparing for a hard-fought battle. Whichever candidate emerges victorious will take on the responsibility of representing Katakwi at a critical juncture in the district’s development.

As the campaign season heats up, the eyes of Katakwi voters will be on the candidates, weighing their track records, proposals, and vision for the future.