By Our Reporter 

Soroti District — The political landscape in Soroti County has taken a decisive turn following the entry of former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) parliamentary candidate Daniel Eigu onto the campaign trail in support of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and NRM flag bearer Patrick Aeku, triggering visible cracks within the opposition’s support base.

Eigu, who commanded significant grassroots backing in Kamuda and Lale sub-counties, has in recent weeks actively mobilised voters for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), a move that has reshaped political alignments in areas previously considered strongholds of the opposition.

In the 2021 general election, Eigu contested for the Soroti County parliamentary seat on the FDC ticket, polling 5,900 votes, the majority of which came from Kamuda and Lale. His performance established him as a key political figure whose influence continues to resonate at the grassroots level.

Since Eigu began openly campaigning for President Museveni and Patrick Aeku, local leaders and former FDC mobilisers have defected to the NRM, citing confidence in Eigu’s political direction and the ruling party’s development agenda. Several FDC structures at village and parish levels have reportedly weakened, with members shifting allegiance as NRM activities gain momentum in the area.

NRM supporters say Eigu’s endorsement has reinvigorated the party’s ground campaign, especially among undecided voters and former opposition loyalists.

Why Eigu Stepped Down

Eigu had initially expressed interest in contesting again under the FDC banner but later formally communicated his decision to step down from the race, citing the need to prioritise unity, stability and what he described as constructive engagement with the ruling government. His move followed consultations at national level, after which he publicly declared support for President Museveni and the NRM.

The FDC leadership rejected Eigu’s attempt to withdraw from the race, arguing that electoral laws do not allow a candidate to unilaterally step down without formal party approval. Party officials maintained that Eigu remained their official candidate and insisted they would continue to campaign for him despite his public alignment with the NRM.

The standoff exposed internal tensions within the opposition party and further unsettled its support base in Soroti County.

With the backing of an influential former opponent, Aeku’s campaign has gained renewed traction ahead of the upcoming polls.

As campaigns intensify, Soroti County is emerging as one of the most closely watched constituencies in the region. What is clear, however, is that Eigu’s political shift has altered the dynamics, weakening FDC’s grip while strengthening NRM’s position on the ground.

With defections continuing and alliances shifting, the battle for Soroti County has entered a new and unpredictable phase.