Epiphany advocates for ethical politics amid rising electoral tensions

Pakwach: As the political temperature rises ahead of the 2026 general elections, Berocan Epiphany, a parliamentary hopeful for Jonam County in Pakwach district, is championing a message of ethical politics, urging fellow candidates to engage in issue-based campaigns grounded in integrity and public service.

Speaking during a well-attended campaign rally in Dei Sub-county, Epiphany addressed supporters preparing for the upcoming NRM primary elections set for July, emphasizing the need for accountability, constructive dialogue, and unity.

“I am committed to leadership that delivers tangible outcomes, not personal attacks,” Epiphany told the crowd. “Our constituents deserve improved infrastructure, fair fishing regulations, youth employment opportunities, and a political process free from coercion, corruption, or empty promises.”

Epiphany identified Lake Albert’s fishing policies as a critical issue for the Jonam community, many of whom depend on the lake for their livelihoods. The government’s current restrictions, aimed at combating illegal fishing, have instead sparked frustration among locals, who argue they are being unfairly targeted by enforcement officers.

“Fishing is not just an economic activity it’s a lifeline for our people. We need laws that protect resources and respect livelihoods,” he added.

A trained economist, Epiphany is contesting the NRM flag against, among others, Robert Omito Steen, the current Pakwach District Chairperson. His campaign strategy focuses on grassroots mobilization, especially in fishing communities affected by security crackdowns on the Nile and Lake Albert.

His team believes a campaign focused on solutions, service delivery, and integrity is resonating deeply with the electorate.

Over the past week, Epiphany has seen growing momentum in Panyimur and Dei Sub-counties, with rallies attracting thousands of men, women, and youth. Community members have praised his unifying tone and focus on real issues.

Who is Bercocan?

Born on January 3, 1984, in Pajago Central Village, Wadelai Sub-county, Berocan is the son of retired catechist Ijino Okwong (Lwalo Clan – Pumit) and Mego Judita Nyivuru (Ragem Clan – Pawor). His early life was marked by economic hardship.

Expelled from Pakwach Senior Secondary School over unpaid fees of UGX 299,250, he nevertheless sat for his UCE exams as a private candidate at Panyango S.S., earning the only First Grade among 238 candidates.

With support from his maternal uncle Onen John Rubanga, he completed A’ Levels at Lakeside College Luzira, later securing a government scholarship to Makerere University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics.

Berocan’s academic journey continued abroad and at home with an MSc in Econometrics from the London School of Economics (2010–2011), government-funded, an MA in Economics at Makerere University (2011-2013), sponsored by the Ministry of Finance.

Berocan’s professional career is defined by public service and policy expertise. His work spans key national institutions including; Bank of Uganda where he worked as Research Assistant from 2007 to 2008, Uganda Revenue Authority where he worked as Customs Officer from 2008 to 2009 and at the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development as Senior Economist from 2009 to present.

This experience gives him a deep understanding of Uganda’s economic and governance frameworks skills he now seeks to channel into transformative leadership for Jonam.

A manifesto of practical solutions

Berocan’s campaign platform is grounded in local needs and long-term impact. His priorities include; agriculture and food Security through completion of the Wadelai Irrigation Scheme to enhance farming productivity.

He also pledges for settlement of the Palango land dispute, a long-standing source of tension and disunity, advocating for modern fishing tools (e.g., fish cages) and fairer enforcement to restore access to Lake Albert and the Albert Nile both vital to Jonam’s economy.

Others are lobbying for the construction of a district hospital in Pakwach, expanding scholarships and scholastic aid, building on his support for Pakwach Secondary School, implementing poverty alleviation programs through vocational training and cooperative initiatives and strengthening support for traditional leaders and cultural heritage projects.

At the heart of his platform lies a commitment to transparency, accountability, and service-driven governance.

Political analysts point to Jonam’s unique challenges, particularly within the fishing sector. Tensions over the Fisheries Protection Unit’s enforcement practices have deeply impacted local livelihoods.

Berocan’s ability to offer clear, actionable solutions will be key to winning over this influential voting bloc and securing the NRM nomination.

With the NRM primaries approaching, Berocan’s dramatic return and rousing reception have reaffirmed his status as a unifying force. His blend of academic excellence, policy experience, and deep community roots positions him as a formidable contender one who resonates with both the aspirations and grievances of Jonam’s people.

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