By Nathan Eyagu 

Soroti City – Aspiring Member of Parliament for Soroti East Division, Hon. Amuriat Pascal, has urged leaders to shift their focus from historical grievances to addressing the immediate socio-economic needs of urban residents. His remarks follow the recent "No Cow, No Vote" campaign led by Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) President Patrick Oboi Amuriat and Teso FDC MPs, which was disrupted by security forces in Soroti City yesterday.

The campaign, spearheaded by FDC leaders, demanded compensation for cattle lost during the insurgencies of 1984–1995. The issue has been a long-standing concern among the people of Teso, who suffered significant economic setbacks due to cattle raids and conflicts. However, Amuriat Pascal has taken a different stance, emphasizing that while past injustices should not be ignored, urban challenges in Soroti City require more urgent attention.

Amuriat highlighted the economic struggles faced by city residents, including excessive taxation on small businesses, which limits growth and discourages investment. He pointed out that access to affordable credit remains a significant hurdle, preventing many from engaging in entrepreneurship and economic self-sufficiency.

"Our people are struggling with taxation and a lack of financial support to grow their businesses. We must create a favorable economic environment rather than dwell on unresolved historical matters," Amuriat stated.

He further raised concerns over the state of public healthcare, citing underfunded and understaffed health facilities that fail to meet the needs of the growing urban population. Many families, he noted, cannot afford quality education for their children, while basic services such as clean water remain out of reach for low-income households.

"Health facilities are ill-equipped, schools are expensive, and access to water is still a major issue. These are the real challenges that require immediate intervention," he added.

Beyond economic and social concerns, Amuriat Pascal also criticized the state of waste management in Soroti City. He described inefficient garbage disposal systems as a health and environmental hazard that requires urgent government action.

"If we want to build a modern city, we must address waste management, sanitation, and urban planning. This is what leadership should focus on," he argued.

As part of his campaign agenda, Amuriat pledged to advocate for policies that reduce taxation on small businesses, improve healthcare services, enhance access to education, and push for better waste management. He called on political leaders to move away from rhetoric and focus on policies that provide tangible solutions to the challenges facing urban residents.

"As a leader who understands the evolving needs of Soroti City, I am committed to shifting the focus from outdated issues to real solutions that will directly improve the livelihoods of our people," he stated.

His remarks have sparked debate in Soroti East Division, with some supporting his call for urban-focused policies, while others maintain that cattle compensation remains a critical issue for the Teso sub-region. With the elections approaching, Amuriat Pascal's position is expected to shape political discourse in the region, as voters weigh the balance between historical justice and contemporary urban development.