Akena targets presidency with focus on Teso grievances
Akena criticised the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government for its failure to compensate the people of Teso and for the poor state of healthcare services across the country.
Jimmy Akena addressing the Teso supporters in Soroti city on Monday, June 30, 2025. (Photo by Godfrey Ojore)
By Godfrey Ojore
Journalists @New Vision
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Jimmy Akena, president of the Uganda Peoples’ Congress (UPC), has declared his intention to run for the presidency of Uganda and pledged to resolve the long-standing compensation issue affecting the people of Teso.
Akena, who is currently the MP for Lira East Division in Lira city, made the announcement before UPC party members in Soroti city.
He criticised the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government for its failure to compensate the people of Teso and for the poor state of healthcare services across the country.
He stressed that UPC has a tested and proven methodology that has delivered for Ugandans in the past, distinguishing it from other political parties.
“What the government is doing to compensate Teso, Lango, and Acholi is a mockery. If I owe you sh2.3m and I begin paying you sh80,000 a year, when will you ever get all your money?” Akena asked.
Jimmy Akena (middle) with party members in Teso after the meeting on Monday. (Photo by Godfrey Ojore)
His pledge to address the compensation issue has struck a chord with the people of Teso, who have waited for justice for years. Akena also accused the NRM of prioritising its grip on power over the well-being of citizens.
This financial year, the government allocated sh80 billion for the three regions, a figure that leaders argue is grossly insufficient. In Teso alone, there are over 33,000 claimants.
Although UPC’s influence in Teso has waned in recent years, Akena’s declaration has rekindled hope among party supporters. Some believe his leadership could rejuvenate the party's presence in the region.
“We have a message, methodology, ideology, and a tested and tried methodology that has worked for the people of Uganda,” Akena stated. He added, “The NRM is not a political party but a state-funded organisation that is only interested in power.”
Ketty Akol, a UPC supporter, voiced her support for Akena’s leadership: “With Akena as our commander, victory is on our way.” Her sentiments reflect the renewed optimism among UPC supporters in Teso.