Alur King warns politicians against divisive politics
The upcoming elections are expected to be highly competitive, with several political heavyweights facing off.
Zombo: His Majesty Ubimu Phillip Rauni Olarker III, the King of Alur Kingdom, has issued a stern warning to politicians in Alur land against engaging in sectarian and divisive politics that fuel tribalism, hate, and disunity among his people.
The King’s strongly worded statement comes as political tensions rise ahead of the much-anticipated 2026 general elections.
Speaking from Alur Kingdom’s palace in Kal Atyak Winam, Zombo District, during the historic visit of the Acholi Paramount Chief, Ubimu emphasized that he will only support leaders who prioritize development and unity over political strife.
“As the King of Alur, I will only support people who want to bring development to our land. I will not support those who seek to divide my people. Don’t come to me with messages of division bring ideas that promote progress,” he declared, drawing thunderous applause from the gathered crowd, which included political incumbents and aspirants from across the district.
His remarks come amid growing concerns over hate speech and tribalism in Greater Nebbi, where political actors are increasingly engaging in divisive rhetoric.
Tito Ocamringa, campaign manager for Okoro County MP Gabriel Okumu, welcomed the King’s message, stating:“Hate speech and tribalism have become rampant. Many politicians have no real agenda they simply attack others based on their origins.”
President Yoweri Museveni recently issued a similar warning, vowing to take action against individuals promoting sectarianism and disunity.
Similarly, Amos Jacan, the youth chairperson of Zombo, echoed concerns over escalating hate speech while speaking at the launch of Okoro County MP aspirant Sam Kumakech’s campaign in Dwonga Ward, Paidha Town Council. He stressed the need for a shift in mindset among both politicians and the electorate.
As political campaigns intensify, many politicians are under increased scrutiny from voters, who are demanding accountability rather than empty promises.
Francis Bolingo, district councilor for Athuma Sub-County and Chairperson of the Opposition Alliance in Zombo, urged voters to focus on holding leaders accountable rather than engaging in identity-based politics.
“Instead of attacking someone’s origin, use your time to demand accountability. Politicians have promised to fix roads, hospitals, and other services, but what have they delivered?” he questioned in an interview on March 12, 2025.
A 2024 report by the Uganda Human Rights Commission highlighted a disturbing surge in hate speech among political actors, with the Central Region being the most affected.
The Greater Nebbi sub-region comprising Zombo, Nebbi, and Pakwach Districts is witnessing a significant political shift, with more youths actively seeking leadership positions.
Innocent Godfrey Onega, LCIII Chairperson of Paidha Town Council, who is contesting for the Okoro County MP seat as an independent, urged his constituents to reclaim their political influence:
“We need to rise up and reclaim what rightfully belongs to the people of Okoro.”
Religious leaders have also weighed in on the issue. Archbishop Raphael P’Mony Wokorach of Gulu Ecclesiastical Province, during the recent consecration of Nebbi Catholic Bishop, pointed to selfishness, disunity, and segregation among politicians as major obstacles to development in Greater Nebbi.
One of the region’s most pressing concerns is the 119-kilometer Nebbi-Paidha-Zombo-Zeu-Warr-Vurra road, which remains in a dilapidated state.
During a 2024 thanksgiving ceremony for Junior Energy and Mineral Development Minister Fiona Nyamutoro at Luo Grounds, Nebbi Municipality, President Museveni assured the people that the road would be tarmacked, starting with the 19-kilometer Nebbi-Goli One Stop Border Point. However, he did not provide a clear timeline, leaving residents uncertain.
The upcoming elections are expected to be highly competitive, with several political heavyweights facing off.
In Jonam County, Robert Omito Steen, the LCV Chairperson of Pakwach and a parliamentary aspirant, promised voters that he would advocate for the region’s interests in Parliament:
“Give me the mandate to represent you at the national level so that I can deliver development through unity.”
Meanwhile, in Nebbi Municipality, a tense showdown is brewing between Jonam County MP Emmanuel Ongiertho and incumbent MP Hashim Suleiman.
Despite occasional political tensions, the Alur Kingdom remains a symbol of unity, with King Ubimu Phillip Rauni Olarker III welcoming all leaders committed to serving the people and fostering development.
“We must rise above division and focus on unity. Only then can we ensure our people benefit from the national cake,” the King emphasized.
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