By Nathan Eyagu

Ngariam, Katakwi District – The political storm in Ngariam County has taken a sharp and unforgiving turn as Augustine Otuko, popularly known as Emasanik Ingariama, emerges from the shadows with a fierce and unapologetic campaign aimed at unseating incumbent MP and Minister of State for Education, Peter Ogwang, in the NRM primaries set for July 17, 2025.

Once dismissed as a political underdog after narrowly losing in the previous election, Otuko has returned with renewed energy and a loyal grassroots movement that has already sent shockwaves through Ogwang’s camp. His village-to-village campaign trail is not just gaining momentum—it’s shaking the very foundation of Ngariam’s political establishment.

Peter Ogwang, who became MP for Ngariam in 2011, has since then held the seat for over a decade, climbing the national ladder to become a state minister. However, while his influence has expanded in Kampala, critics argue his connection to the electorate has thinned. What once looked like a solid political fortress is now riddled with cracks—and Otuko is hammering at every one of them.

“The people of Ngariam have been taken for granted. They are used during elections and dumped after voting,” Otuko thundered during a recent rally in Omodoi parish. “I might not have made it last time, but this time, I’m not just back—I’m coming for what belongs to the people.”

Otuko’s rise isn't without merit. His consistent efforts to empower locals through tangible support—distribution of maize seeds, cassava cuttings, bursaries, and championing the linkage of locals to government programs—have earned him respect even beyond political lines.

“Where others disappeared after elections, Otuko stayed with us,” said an elder in Magoro. “He supported education, agriculture, and ensured we benefited from government programs. He is not just campaigning—he is continuing the work he started.”

The upcoming NRM primaries promise to be a three-horse race, with Otuko set to face off with the incumbent Minister Ogwang and Dan Mulalu, the head of the Kazi Ni Kazi movement. However, political observers say the real showdown is between Otuko and Ogwang—a battle of legacy versus loyalty, power versus presence.

Tensions are already rising. Otuko’s hard-hitting remarks against “absentee leaders” who only show up during campaign seasons have drawn the ire of Ogwang’s allies, but also drawn thousands to his rallies. His narrative of “service closer to the people” resonates loudly in a county grappling with poor road infrastructure, limited agricultural support, and underfunded community projects.

“Money is coming,” Otuko told one crowd. “Let them bring it—but vote with your conscience. Vote for those who will stand with you even when the cameras are gone.”

As the primary date inches closer, Ngariam is on the edge. What once seemed like a calm political landscape now faces an eruption, as Otuko’s campaign machine revs harder, knocking on every door and igniting every village.

Peter Ogwang may have once stood unchallenged, but now—his past rival is not just back—he’s roaring. The political shadows that once loomed silently have returned in full force, and Ngariam is watching, listening, and deciding.