By Our Reporter

SOROTI CITY — The swearing-in of Joan Acom Alobo for a second consecutive term as Woman Member of Parliament for Soroti City has sparked fresh political debate across the Teso sub-region, with analysts describing her renewed mandate as a major boost for opposition politics and a worrying signal for the ruling National Resistance Movement in eastern Uganda.

Popularly known as the “Arrow Girl,” Alobo officially took oath for the 2026–2031 parliamentary term during a ceremony held at Parliament, where she pledged to continue championing accountability, women empowerment, youth development, and improved service delivery.

Her re-election under the Forum for Democratic Change banner has further strengthened the opposition party’s dominance in Soroti City, an area that has increasingly become one of FDC’s most reliable political strongholds in Teso.

Political observers say Alobo’s victory has sent shockwaves through NRM circles in the region, especially at a time when the ruling party has been seeking to reclaim urban support in eastern Uganda. Her ability to retain the seat comfortably against challengers is being interpreted as a sign that opposition influence in Soroti City remains deeply rooted despite growing political competition.

Speaking shortly after taking oath, Alobo thanked residents for renewing their trust in her leadership.

“I dedicate this victory to the people of Soroti City who have continuously believed in issue-based leadership. I will continue being their voice in Parliament and defending the interests of ordinary Ugandans,” she said.

Alobo first entered Parliament in 2021 after winning the inaugural Soroti City Woman MP seat following the operationalization of Soroti City. During the 11th Parliament, she emerged as one of the most outspoken legislators from Teso and built a reputation for grassroots mobilisation and activism.

She served on the Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation, became Vice Chairperson of the Teso Parliamentary Group, and also served as Secretary General of the FDC Youth League.

Born on October 27, 1991, Alobo is a trained physical planner. Before joining active politics, she worked with the National Water and Sewerage Corporation in Soroti after graduating from Makerere University with a degree in Urban and Regional Planning.

Her political rise has largely been shaped by persistence and grassroots engagement. She previously contested for leadership positions within FDC and unsuccessfully attempted to secure the Woman MP seat before eventually rising to prominence across the Teso sub-region.

Throughout her first parliamentary term, Alobo gained popularity through governance activism and community empowerment initiatives. Her “Give Direct Initiative,” which extended financial support to hundreds of community groups in Soroti City, earned praise from supporters who viewed it as a practical approach to economic empowerment.

She also remained active in national opposition politics, participating in advocacy campaigns and demonstrations on issues affecting the Teso sub-region, including compensation demands and concerns over service delivery.

As the 12th Parliament begins, many residents in Soroti City now expect the outspoken legislator to continue amplifying the concerns of women, youth, traders, and vulnerable communities while strengthening opposition influence in Teso politics.