By Okidi Patrick
ABIM, UGANDA: Labwor constituency MP-elect Hon Michael Ayepa is expected to be officially sworn in next week as the Member of Parliament for Labwor County, marking a vibrant political come back in the12 parliament.
Hon Ayepa, who reclaimed the seat after defeating the incumbent, MP Jimbricky Ochero Norman, in a high-stakes January 2026 general elections, is among the 500-plus legislators slated to be sworn-in at Parliament House between May 13 and 15, 2026.
The Labwor County race was one of the most closely watched in the Karamoja sub-region, characterized by intense rivalry. Ayepa garnered 10,661 votes against Mr Ochero’s 7,864, according to results declared by the independent Electoral Commission.
Political observers say Ayepa’s victory was fueled by a promise to restore “transparency, peace and ethical leadership,” following a period of outcry from tge Ethur community in Labwor county over low standard leadership. His return to the House is seen as a mandate to address long-standing land disputes, cattle rustling problem and service delivery gaps in Abim District.
Parliamentary authorities have issued a stern warning regarding the swearing in ceremony protocal in that each MP-elect is permitted only three guests.
“The swearing-in will be done in alphabetical order. We urge all members to respect the schedules and guidelines,” the Clerk to parliament stated.
Following the three-day exercise, the House will convene for its first sitting to elect a Speaker and Deputy Speaker after the swearing-in ceremony.
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