NRM’s Esudu topples FDC from Soroti City mayoral seat

SOROTI - Francis Esudu of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has brought to an end the dominance of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) in Soroti City after winning the mayoral race.

Esudu triumphed with 11,504 votes, defeating four contenders, including FDC' s Paul Omer, who came second with 8,274 votes. 

Independent candidates Edmund Elasu, Simon Peter Ebitu and John Emmanuel Opio each polled 3,435 votes, 2,280 votes and 114 votes, respectively.

A trained civil engineer, Esudu takes over leadership of Uganda’s youngest city from outgoing mayor Joshua Edogu of FDC, who did not seek re-election.

His victory marks a significant political shift in a city that has traditionally leaned towards the opposition.

Speaking shortly after being declared winner by the Soroti City returning officer, John Gonzanga Olinga, Esudu said he was humbled by the confidence voters had placed in him.

“I am humbled by the trust that the people of Soroti City have bestowed on me. I pledge to tackle challenges of garbage management and improve city infrastructure."

He attributed his success to strong backing from NRM party structures, particularly the support of the NRM national vice-chairperson for Eastern Uganda, David Calvin Echodu, whom he credited for mobilising grassroots support.

“This victory belongs to my party that stood with me throughout the campaigns. I will carry the party flag high as I deliver quality services to the people of Soroti City,” said Esudu.

In the council races, Ivan Onyait of NRM was declared winner of the Soroti City West Division directly elected councillor seat, while Murshid Naji Abdallah of FDC won the East Division seat.