By Mike Rwothomio
Stephen Okwaimungu, a staunch National Resistance Movement (NRM) supporter and member of the Patriotic League of Uganda, secured a decisive victory in the NRM primary election for Publicity Secretary of Paidha Town Council, Zombo District.
The fiercely contested NRM party structure primaries for sub-counties and town councils took place nationwide on May 16, 2025.
Known as “Ambassador Okwai,” Okwaimungu triumphed with 123 voters lining up in support, overwhelmingly defeating his rivals Emmanuel Ovoya and Kizito Oyullu.
In an interview with this publication, Okwaimungu hailed the result as a significant milestone, announcing his ambition to contest for the NRM District Secretary General position, currently held by Boris Ringtho.
“I’m overwhelmed by this victory. Despite attempts to buy votes overnight, my supporters stood firm. I thank them for their trust,” Okwai declared after being announced the winner.
He further issued a stern warning: “To corrupt leaders tarnishing our party at the district level, I’m coming to clean up the mess and replace Boris as Secretary General.”
In a parallel upset, Mave Wedunga Isaiah, the long-serving NRM Chairperson for Paidha Town Council for over two decades, lost his seat to Shaban Ouchi.
Mave, popularly known as “Abiriga,” graciously accepted the outcome, pledging to collaborate with the new chairperson to advance the party’s agenda.
“I urge our members to cease personal attacks and insults against my family. Let’s act with maturity,” Mave added.
Other elected positions included representatives for special interest groups, youth, women, and veterans.
The district-level NRM primaries are scheduled for next Friday.
Prisca Onegiu, the NRM Registrar for Zombo, praised party members for maintaining peace during the competitive sub-county and town council primaries held across the district.
Speaking to journalists at Bar Okoro Stadium after overseeing the Paidha Town Council primaries, Onegiu commended the orderly process.
Similarly, Northern Uganda Female MP Catharine Akumu Mavenjina lauded party members for their respect and maturity throughout the exercise.
Meanwhile, Zombo’s Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Bruno Manano, cautioned against any attempts to incite tensions during upcoming electoral activities.
The NRM is intensifying preparations for the highly anticipated 2026 general elections.
