By Nathan Eyagu 

Bukedea County — Anticipation is building across Bukedea as parliamentary aspirant Silas Opejo prepares to roll out a series of community engagements aimed at connecting with voters and listening to their concerns ahead of the 2026 general elections.

The meetings, scheduled to take place over two days, will bring Opejo closer to grassroots voices as he positions himself for the Bukedea County parliamentary seat under the Patriotic League of Uganda.

According to his team, Opejo will begin his outreach on 19 November 2025 in Mother Malera and Mother Kolir, before continuing on 20 November 2025 in Mother Kidongole and Mother Bukedea. The sessions are expected to attract community leaders, youth, women’s groups and residents eager to share their perspectives on development needs within the county.

Opejo’s upcoming tour is framed as a listening exercise designed to gather first-hand insights into the challenges facing local communities. Among the key issues voters have repeatedly highlighted are land rights, improved health services, quality education and better opportunities for the youth. His team notes that the upcoming interactions will shape his policy priorities as the campaign season approaches.

Local leaders have welcomed the initiative, saying it signals a more people-centered approach to leadership. Constituents have long called for meaningful dialogue with their representatives, urging political aspirants to prioritise issues that directly impact livelihoods.

Although the engagements are not yet active, Opejo’s planned meetings have already stirred discussions within the county, with many residents expressing interest in sharing their expectations. His decision to start early consultations is seen as a strategic step toward consolidating support and strengthening his presence at the grassroots level.

Opejo previously contested for the Bukedea County seat in 2016, and his renewed bid comes at a time when the county’s political landscape is becoming increasingly competitive. Analysts note that early voter engagement could play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the 2026 race.

As the scheduled meetings draw nearer, Opejo continues to emphasize dialogue, transparency and community involvement as core pillars of his campaign. His team says the engagements aim to give every community a platform to express their needs and hopes for the future.