By James Alomu

The political spotlight in Soroti City East Division is set to shine brightly today as residents prepare to witness a high-stakes East mayoral debate, a forum that promises to shape the trajectory of the  elections. The event, scheduled to take place at Rhino Camp Hotel, brings together seven candidates from diverse political parties and independent backgrounds in what many are already calling a “clash of titans.”

With the Division mayoral race intensifying, the debate offers voters a rare opportunity to engage directly with the candidates, scrutinize their policy proposals, and evaluate their vision for the future of the division. The participants include Gabriel Ogire of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Onyait Moses of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF), Ewachu Erias of the Democratic Front (DF), Epuru Solomon of the National Unity Platform (NUP), independent candidates Tom Okilan and Wilfred Onyango, and Latif Abdul representing the National Resistance Movement (NRM). This diverse lineup highlights the political plurality of Soroti City East and reflects the growing democratic engagement within the community.

Rhino Camp Hotel, renowned for hosting civic and community events, provides an ideal setting for this crucial exchange of ideas. Residents, civil society actors, youth groups, and business leaders are encouraged to attend and witness firsthand how the candidates plan to tackle issues ranging from development and governance to social services and economic empowerment. Organizers have set an entrance fee of 10,000 UGX to ensure a well-coordinated and orderly event, while maintaining accessibility to the general public.

Political analysts emphasize that debates of this nature are essential for strengthening grassroots democracy. By bringing candidates together on a single stage, the forum fosters transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making. It allows voters to compare leadership styles, understand policy priorities, and make choices grounded in issues rather than rhetoric.

As the Soroti City East mayoral race reaches a critical juncture, today’s debate is expected to play a decisive role in shaping public perception and guiding voter choices. The city’s residents now have a platform to listen, question, and evaluate the visions of those vying to lead the division into the future.