By Nathan Eyagu 

Katakwi District – The former district leaders from Katakwi have officially defected from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

The defectors, led by former district leader Martin Omedo Odaka and Madam Aguti Stella Jane, were received by senior NRM officials, including the party's district chairman, Odeket Opio Richard, and lawyer Okiror. Their transition marks another wave of political shifts as the NRM continues to strengthen its influence in the Teso sub-region.

The group was formally welcomed by Capt. Mike Mukula, the NRM Vice Chairman for Eastern Uganda, who confirmed their defection via his official X (formerly Twitter) account. In his post, Mukula stated:

"I have just received a crossover team from Katakwi District who have joined the NRM party, led by Mr. Martin Omedo Odaka, former district leader, and Madam Aguti Stella Jane, accompanied by NRM district chairman Odeket Opio Richard and lawyer Okiror."

This move aligns with recent trends in Eastern Uganda, where several opposition figures have crossed over to the ruling party. The NRM has been actively engaging in grassroots mobilization, with key party leaders working to consolidate support ahead of upcoming political activities.

Odaka’s defection is particularly significant, given his previous candidacy for the Katakwi District LCV seat under the FDC ticket. His move signals a potential shift in local political dynamics as the ruling party seeks to tighten its grip on the district.

The defection also follows a broader trend across Uganda, where opposition members have been transitioning to the NRM. Recent reports indicate that over 500 FDC supporters in Soroti City have also defected to the ruling party, further underscoring the changing political landscape.

With the 2026 elections on the horizon, political analysts view these defections as a strategic advantage for the NRM, which continues to attract members from opposition parties. As the political climate evolves, it remains to be seen how these shifts will impact future elections and governance in the region.

As the newly defected leaders integrate into the NRM, political observers anticipate further realignments in Katakwi and neighboring districts. The ruling party’s focus on grassroots mobilization and recruitment efforts will likely continue to shape the political landscape in Eastern Uganda.

The latest defections reinforce the NRM’s dominance in the region while raising questions about the strength and strategy of opposition parties ahead of upcoming elections.