By James Alomu 

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) has delivered a stunning electoral upset in Soroti City, dismantling long-standing opposition dominance and asserting firm control over the city’s political leadership in what observers have described as an unprecedented victory.

In results that mark a decisive shift in Soroti’s political dynamics, the NRM won both mayoral seats in Soroti City East and West divisions—positions that have historically been dominated by opposition parties. Latif Abdul Wali emerged victorious in Soroti City East Division, while John Enomu claimed the mayoral seat in Soroti City West Division, sealing a clean sweep for the ruling party.

Latif Abdul Wali secured a landslide win after polling 11,003 votes, defeating six rivals by wide margins. His closest competitors included Solomon Epuru of the National Unity Platform (NUP), who garnered 217 votes, Wilfred Onyango (Independent) with 424 votes, and Elias Ewacu of the Democratic Front (DF), who received 74 votes.

In the West Division, John Enomu polled 7,899 votes to defeat Peter Patrick Emaru of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) with 363 votes, Samuel Eyobu (Independent) with 1,443 votes, and Isaac Asaku of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), who garnered 3,874 votes.

The results were officially announced by Luke Osele, the Assistant Returning Officer for Soroti City, who declared Latif Abdul Wali and John Enomu as the duly elected mayors of Soroti City East and West divisions respectively.

Following their victories, the new mayors pledged to focus on infrastructure development, improved garbage collection, and attracting investment to create employment opportunities for city residents. Addressing supporters after his declaration, Latif Abdul Wali acknowledged the city’s development challenges and expressed confidence in his leadership.

“Soroti City has been lagging behind for quite a long time,” he said. “I believe we shall deliver the best.”

The NRM’s dominance was further reinforced by victories in several councilor races across wards in both divisions, strengthening the party’s hold on the city council. The newly elected councilors are expected to work closely with the mayors to enhance service delivery and accelerate development initiatives.

Political analysts say the outcome signals a major realignment in Soroti City politics, with voters delivering a clear message of confidence in the NRM’s leadership. As the city turns a new page, residents and stakeholders alike will be watching closely to see whether the overwhelming mandate translates into tangible improvements in governance, service delivery, and economic growth.

With the old political order decisively dismantled, Soroti City now enters a new era one defined by high expectations and an urgent demand for results.