By Nathan Eyagu 

Soroti City — The Democratic Front (DF) party, under the leadership of Hon. Mathias Mpuuga, has taken a significant step in expanding its political presence in Eastern Uganda following the defection of several National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders from the Teso sub-region.

The political realignment was formalized on June 18, 2025, during the official launch of the DF party office in Soroti City. During the event, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the DF party and the former NUP officials, symbolizing a commitment to joint political mobilization and a shared vision for national reform.

Among the defectors were NUP district chairpersons and mobilizers from Kumi, Ngora, Amuria, Serere, Kapelebyong, and a former FDC member from Kaberamaido, Mr. Odongo Simon Peter. The group pledged to work hand in hand with the DF leadership to strengthen grassroots structures, promote inclusive governance, and encourage civic engagement throughout the region.

Addressing a diverse audience that included members from NUP, FDC, NRM, UPC, and other political parties, Mathias Mpuuga called for a return to unity and the rekindling of Uganda’s founding principles.

“This country's equation includes the people of Teso, Acholi, Lango, Karamoja, and all Ugandans. We must think together about how to rebuild this nation,” said Mpuuga. “The dream of fairness, unity, and shared prosperity has faded, but we have a duty to revive it.”

Mpuuga, who has been at the forefront of parliamentary efforts to promote dialogue and political tolerance, encouraged leaders to focus less on partisan rivalries and more on addressing poverty, inequality, and national cohesion.

One of the prominent politicians, Ichoto Julius—a parliamentary aspirant for Kapir County in Ngora District attached to the NRM party—shared his reasons that made him opt for the second options of joining DF, citing internal injustices within his party.

“My name was unfairly removed from the nomination list and it left me with many thoughts. You don’t fight personality, you fight poverty. When I was approached by DF, I chose to support a cause that brings people together,” said Julius.

The MoU signed between the defectors and DF outlines a roadmap for collaborative leadership, youth mobilization, political education, and the deployment of DF agents across Teso. Mpuuga pledged to continue supporting the region and to return with the national campaign team as DF prepares to launch its activities across the country.

Political analysts view the defections as a potential game-changer in Eastern Uganda's opposition landscape. With the 2026 elections approaching, the Democratic Front is positioning itself as a credible alternative for voters disillusioned with internal party wrangles and national stagnation.

The Soroti event concluded with a call for peaceful political engagement, mutual respect among parties, and renewed dedication to rebuilding the Ugandan dream.