By Nathan Eyagu

SOROTI - Soroti City Woman Member of Parliament, Joan Alobo Acom, has broken her silence following her recent incarceration in Soroti government prisons. Alobo, along with Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Party President Patrick Amuriat Oboi, Soroti City West Division MP Jonathan Ebwalu, and several others, was arrested earlier this month during a protest under the slogan “No Cow, No Vote.”

The protest, which focused on issues affecting the region, led to the temporary detention of the opposition leaders. After being granted bail, the leaders had yet to address their constituents until now. Alobo, however, has released a heartfelt statement reflecting on her time in prison, her gratitude toward her supporters, and her renewed commitment to her role as the representative of Soroti City.

In her statement, Alobo expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support of her constituents during her incarceration. She also thanked the individuals who played key roles in securing her release, emphasizing her determination to continue advocating for the people of Soroti City.

Here is the full message from Joan Alobo:

"With heartfelt gratitude, I take this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to all my constituents of Soroti City for the unwavering love, prayers, goodwill, and support you have shown me during the difficult time of my incarceration. Your steadfastness has given me strength and humility. I do not take your support for granted.

To my voters, you are the best. I will stand for you, speak for you, and stand with you until the end. Nothing will intimidate me from advocating on your behalf. You are one in a million, and I love you deeply.

Allow me to single out a few individuals for their exceptional efforts in ensuring that my fellow accused and I regained our freedom:

• Honourable Counsel Elasu Edmund, you stood by me from the beginning to the end. Your efforts will never be forgotten.
• Honourable Omer Paul, your selfless and energetic support has been remarkable. Thank you, and may God grant you all you wish for.
• Honourable Counsel Okot Bitek, you are a true brother who stood firm and maintained your ground with clear and articulate views. Apwoyo Twatwal.
• Honourable Counsel Adeke Ann Ebaju, your presence as a sister, counsel, and friend meant the world to me. Eyalama noi.
• Counsel Ogire, your experience and support as a great friend will always be remembered.
• Counsel Jackie N, your warmth and love throughout this ordeal touched my heart, and I will never forget you.
• Honourable Atan Moses, Asante sana.

To all my Honourable colleagues, Members of Parliament, and Councillors across the political divide, especially Honourable Asaku, thank you for your unwavering support. Your concerted efforts have been invaluable.

To all my sureties and the sureties of everyone who was imprisoned, you are the reason we are free today. Your presence in court was essential, and I am forever grateful to you.

Special thanks to my friends from sister political parties—NRM, NUP, UPC, DP, PFF, and ANT—as well as Mr. Benson Ekuwe from the Human Rights Section and PAC, and all the LCs. Your love and care mean so much to me.

To the media and the 4th Estate Team, your professionalism and dedication are deeply appreciated. May the Good Lord bless you abundantly. I am grateful and indebted to you.

To my team, #TeamAlobo, thank you for your hard work and dedication.

To my FDC fraternity, your strong turnout and show of support have lifted my spirits. I am forever grateful.

With love and gratitude,
Joan Acom Alobo
Woman MP, Soroti City"