By Nathan Eyagu 

Katakwi District - The political heat in Ngariam County has reached boiling point as Augustine Otuko, also known by locals as Emasanik Ingariama, officially kicked off an aggressive campaign against incumbent Member of Parliament Peter Ogwang ahead of the highly anticipated NRM primaries scheduled for July 17, 2025.

While addressing locals during his campaign trail across villages in Ngariam County, Otuko openly criticized the poor service delivery under the current leadership, stating that voters had been continuously let down.

“A leader closer to the people is able to handle several issues. Those coming with money—kindly receive it since we have several problems—but during polling, vote for leaders who will stand by the people,” Otuko told the crowds. “You voted for different leaders here, but most of them haven't served you to your expectations. Poor service delivery—that's proof that you're being used during campaign season, and once they go through, they forget about you all.”

In a move that many have interpreted as a direct jab at Ogwang, Otuko accused the incumbent of failing to maintain a relationship with the grassroots communities, further calling on voters to reject leaders who only appear during election seasons.

He urged the residents to support candidates from their own localities to enhance coordination, resource sharing, and direct communication.

“I urge you to vote for political candidates in different positions that come from within your villages. That way, we can easily coordinate and share resources so you are not left out,” Otuko said.

In a tone that rattled rival camps, Otuko boldly stated:

“Money is coming. Once I am done stepping here, others will also come with money. Cheer for them—but ensure you vote for responsible candidates who will bring services closer to you.”

The remarks sparked heated debates across the county, especially among Ogwang’s loyalists who viewed Otuko’s statements as incendiary and disrespectful to the current leadership. Yet among villagers, Otuko’s message seemed to strike a chord.

Locals thanked Otuko for his prior support, particularly his distribution of maize seeds and cassava tubers, which they say contributed to both food security and financial relief.

“We are giving our hope to you,” one resident declared. “We want good road infrastructure, government land to be used for development projects that benefit the community, and saving groups uplifted to boost livelihoods. We also need hand hoes.”

Otuko’s unfiltered campaign message, grounded in the frustrations of the electorate, has thrown Ngariam’s political landscape into a new phase of uncertainty. With just days to the primaries, the gloves are off—and voters now face a critical choice between continuity and change.