By Henry Okello
TORORO
LC3 Chairperson aspirant for Paya Sub-County in Tororo district, John Odongo has officially defected from the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), withdrawing his candidacy under the NUP ticket.
Odongo, once a vocal supporter of the opposition in Tororo, announced his decision after engagements with President Yoweri Museveni and senior NRM leaders from the district at State House Nakasero.
Speaking earlier today, Tuesday, 6th January, 2026 during an engagement with a Tororo local radio station, Odongo confirmed the move, saying his decision was born out of personal reflection and dissatisfaction with NUP’s political agenda.
He dismissed claims that his defection was financially motivated, insisting he has not been given any money by anyone to join NRM.
The incumbent LC3 Chairperson and NRM flag bearer, Philip Owino, welcomed Odongo back to the party, attributing his earlier decision to join NUP to misinformation.
Owino assured Odongo that he would not regret his choice, adding that the party looks forward to his support in mobilizing for all NRM candidates.
District leaders, including the Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Markson Oboth Oboth, hailed Odongo’s return as a significant gain for the ruling party.
With Odongo’s withdrawal, Owino now stands unopposed in the 2026 general elections, a development that strengthens NRM’s mobilization efforts in Tororo as political activities intensify ahead of the polls.
