Soroti LC5 chief-elect Owiny extends olive branch after bitter campaign

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Soroti district LC5 chairperson-elect Bob Owiny has publicly forgiven individuals he says hurt him during the just-concluded campaigns, marked by accusations and what he described as deliberate falsehoods aimed at undermining his candidacy.

Although he did not name those responsible, Owiny said the road to victory was fraught with emotional and political challenges.

“I have carried bitterness in my heart from people who claimed I am not a son of Soroti and those who campaigned against me, saying I am unfit to be district chairperson. But having listened to the sermon today, I want to make it public that I no longer hold any grudge against anyone,” Owiny said.

He made the remarks on April 30, in Aukot sub-county during the burial of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) former employee Sharon Apio.

Owiny, running on the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket, defeated John Calvin Elenyu of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), as well as independents Vincent Enomu and Michael Osege, to win the district’s top seat.

He succeeds Simon Edoru, who opted to contest for the Dakabela County parliamentary seat but was unsuccessful.

Owiny emphasised that his leadership will be anchored on inclusivity and accountability.

LC5 elect of Soroti district with President Yoweri Museveni in a recent function in Soroti.

“I forgive all those who undermined and abused me. I also want to assure them that I will serve Soroti equally. My agenda is a corruption-free district and fair distribution of government resources,” he said.

He observed that President Yoweri Museveni is one of the leaders he emulates for having a forgiving heart.

“My party chairperson, Mzee Museveni, has been insulted several times as well as abused but I have seen him forgive them and even bring them work with him. I consider him my role model,” Owiny added.

During the same service, the Reverend Julius Okoboi of Pentecostal Revival Ministries (PRM) Church urged Christians to embrace forgiveness, noting that hardship can shape future success.

“I went through a difficult life after losing my parents at a young age, but that suffering has led me to where I am today as the general overseer of PRM,” Rev. Okoboi said.

Residents welcomed Owiny’s message, saying it could help heal divisions left by the heated election period.

“The recent elections left many people hurt, but if leaders promote forgiveness, healing will come faster,” said Simon Oluka, a resident.

The newly elected leaders are expected to assume office later this month, with swearing-in ceremonies scheduled to begin on May 12, starting with the President, followed by Members of Parliament and local council leaders.