By Henry Okello
TORORO
Tororo Municipality has ushered in a new leadership as Bernard Ochieng, popularly known as OBEN, clinched victory in the hotly contested mayoral race.
The charismatic radio presenter and station manager at East FM Tororo, representing the National Resistance Movement (NRM), unsat incumbent Kenneth Orono Nyapidi after a decisive vote tally.
Ochieng secured 4,844 votes, outpacing four rivals, including Nyapidi, who finished second with 2,322 votes.
Independent candidate Etatai Robert Omaidu followed with 1,652 votes, while Mukakanya Alexson of the National Unity Platform (NUP) garnered 192 votes. Andrew Okudo, also independent, trailed with 69 votes.
After his declaration, Ochieng pledged to transform Tororo Municipality, focusing on service delivery and community development.
He expressed gratitude to the NRM leadership, particularly President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for entrusting him with the mantle of representation.
For nearly a decade, OBEN has been a household name in Tororo, captivating audiences with his Twende Kazi Leo morning show. His unique blend of humor, civic discourse, and grassroots advocacy has made him a trusted voice in the community.
The Name OBEN—a fusion of the “B” from Bernard and the “O” from Ochieng—has become symbolic of his approachable and relatable persona.
As Tororo voters bid farewell to the incumbent leadership, the election results signal a shift in local politics, with residents placing their confidence in a familiar voice from the airwaves.
Ochieng’s transition from radio to the mayor’s office underscores the growing influence of media personalities in shaping civic leadership.
