By Our Reporter 

Soroti District - The political landscape in Dakabela County, Soroti District, is heating up as momentum continues to build around the parliamentary ambitions of Harriet Anyimo. With each passing day, her candidature for the 2026 general election is gaining notable traction, particularly following a high-profile endorsement by the Arrow Boys and war veterans from across the five sub-counties of Dakabela.

In a widely attended gathering earlier today, over 500 retired veterans and Arrow Boys—led by respected elder John Robert Ekopu—officially threw their support behind Anyimo. The event, hailed as historic by locals, saw emotional testimonies from veterans who lauded Anyimo’s integrity, grassroots engagement, and promise of transformative leadership.

“We have suffered for years because we kept voting for leaders who forgot us after elections,” Ekopu said. “Anyimo may be the first woman to contest here, but even in these early days of her campaign, she has shown that she is different. She has already done more than some sitting leaders. Let’s vote for her—we won’t regret it.”

The veterans urged Anyimo to become a strong advocate for their welfare in Parliament, citing years of being sidelined despite their service. “We want to benefit from government programs too. We want to feel remembered,” Ekopu added.

Anyimo, who recently picked up her nomination forms, confirmed that she is ready for the race, expressing gratitude for the support shown by the community. “The love, unity, and mobilisation on the ground are overwhelming,” she said. “It shows that people are ready for change.”

Her growing popularity stems from a strong, issue-based campaign. Education, infrastructure, and poverty eradication dominate her manifesto—areas she says have long been neglected by past leaders.

“I’ve toured all the schools in Dakabela,” Anyimo told the crowd. “The conditions are heartbreaking: overcrowded classrooms, a severe shortage of teachers, leaking roofs, and inadequate sanitation. This must change—and it will change when I get to Parliament.”

Beyond education, Anyimo highlighted the dire state of community roads across Dakabela, which she says hinder trade, healthcare access, and economic growth.

“Funds are allocated annually for road construction, but our roads remain impassable. The problem is accountability,” she noted. “It’s time for a woman to take charge—because we women lead with responsibility and commitment.”

She further promised to champion community development projects like goat rearing, poultry farming, and enterprise-based programs aligned with the President’s four-acre model to lift households out of poverty.

“These are not just campaign promises. These are actionable solutions,” Anyimo emphasized. “I’m not here to compete in the race of men—I’m here to lead with vision and serve my people.”

As the race to unseat incumbent MP Cosmas Elotu intensifies, tension in Dakabela is mounting. However, the growing pressure appears to energize rather than intimidate the aspiring legislator.

With endorsements piling in, a solid manifesto, and widespread grassroots backing, Harriet Anyimo is fast becoming a formidable contender—poised to redefine leadership in Dakabela County.