Otuke East Voters Rally Behind Silvia Akello, calling her “community Brand‘’ Ahead of 2026 Polls.
By Okidi Patrick
OTUKE – The political landscape in Otuke East Constituency is heating up, with voters across the area expressing overwhelming support for Hon. Silvia Akello as she mounts a determined challenge against the incumbent Member of Parliament, Julius Acon Bua (NRM), in the 2026 general elections.
Akello, who previously served as the Otuke District Woman Representative during the 10th Parliament (2016-2021), recently declared her readiness to contest the direct constituency seat following a prior defeat in the NRM primaries for the Woman Representative position.
Speaking on Friday, Hon. Akello emphasized that her campaign is driven by a quest for genuine accountability and change. “Enough is enough. The people of Otuke East deserve genuine representation and tangible development,” Akello stated. She is expected to run as an independent candidate.
Her commitment to grassroots engagement has earned her significant traction, resulting in the affectionate local nickname, “Twon Ager Otero Idok Amon,” an deep expression in Lango language.
A significant factor fueling the shift in support is a growing desire among constituents for a change in geographical representation. Several voters, including Otim, Aguma, and Apio, voiced frustration that the constituency’s leadership has historically been concentrated in the greater Orum area for over 40 years.
“For over 40 years, Otuke has had a leader originating from the greater Orum area,” they noted, citing former figures like Minister Daniel Omara Atubu (25 years) and the current MP Acon (10 years). “It is now time for us to have a leader from Ogwete, Olilim, or Ogor Sub-counties, rather than from Orum, Orum, Orum!” they asserted passionately.
Her main focus is on infrastructure and accountability.
Voters are linking their support for Hon Akello Silvia basing on dissatisfaction with the current delivery of services.
Sam Okabo, 44, a resident of Aluga B in Olilim Sub-county, voiced frustration over stagnated progress. “For many years, Otuke East has stagnated. What we truly need as of now are quality roads, better schools, and functional hospitals – but not just agricultural inputs that we can afford to buy in small quantity.
Bonny Olobo, from Orum Sub-county, praised Akello’s continued efforts even outside formal office. “Hon. Akello has been actively supporting SACCO groups, helping poor families with education, repairing boreholes, and assisting churches. Otuke East has felt like children without a mother for too long – Akello has come at the right time.”
Consulate Akullu, 70, from Ogwete Sub-county, echoed the sentiment for change, stating: “I may not be educated, but I recognize good leadership. Akello represents the change we need in Parliament.”
Akello’s Development Agenda
Hon. Akello’s campaign platform centers on comprehensive development, including empowering youth and women, addressing pervasive security concerns, strengthening Seeds Secondary School, and enhancing the historical significance of Otuke Hill.
She also highlighted her historical role in the establishment of new administrative units, pledging to complete crucial infrastructure projects.
“My involvement during the council’s approval led to the establishment of new Sub counties, such as Ogor, which was formed from Orum, and Ogwete, which originated from Olilim,” Akello explained. “One of my pledges is to advocate for the construction of these administrative blocks, as some are currently functioning without designated Sub county headquarters.”
Akello’s political journey began in 1993 as a district youth representative in the Constituent Assembly. Notably, she clinched the 2016 parliamentary seat while hospitalized following a serious road accident, underscoring her resilience.
All is now set for a real competitive contest in Otuke East where Hon. Julius Acon Bua faces five challengers, including: Enen Richard (UPC), Dr. Oku Oleng (Independent), Lameck Ogwal (Independent, who is the current Otuke District Speaker), and Hon. Silvia Akello (Independent) who is massively being favoured by thousands of voters in Otuke as a community brand.
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