In a move that’s sure to spark debate, Ofwono Opondo has boldly declared his mission to fortify President Yoweri Museveni’s campaign machinery, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly charged political landscape ahead of the 2026 general elections. But here’s where it gets controversial: Opondo’s unopposed election as Member of Parliament for Older Persons in the Eastern Region has not only solidified his political standing but also raised questions about the opposition’s readiness to challenge the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
During a recent appearance on NBS Frontline, Opondo laid out his vision with striking clarity: ‘Now that I am unopposed, my focus shifts entirely to President Museveni’s campaign. I will retrace his steps, identify vulnerabilities, and ensure the ground is rock-solid until election day.’ This statement underscores his commitment to not just maintain but strengthen the NRM’s dominance, a goal that has both supporters and critics watching closely.
And this is the part most people miss: Opondo’s victory wasn’t just handed to him. It came after the Electoral Commission Tribunal, chaired by Justice Simon Mugyenyi Byamukama, upheld a decision that left him unopposed. The Tribunal found that Joram Mpande Kigenyi, the Democratic Party (DP) candidate, had submitted forged documents during his nomination. Kigenyi’s subsequent withdrawal cleared the path for Opondo’s uncontested win, but it also highlighted what Opondo calls a ‘lack of serious intent’ among many opposition candidates. ‘Many are not genuine contenders,’ he asserted. ‘They’re simply looking for opportunities to negotiate.’
This interpretation is bound to stir differing opinions. Is Opondo’s critique of the opposition fair, or is it a strategic move to undermine their credibility? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Opondo’s transition into elective politics was no accident. It followed President Museveni’s approval in May, after Opondo resigned from his role as Executive Director of the Uganda Media Centre—a position he held for over a decade, making him one of the longest-serving heads of government communications. His resignation, two months before the end of his term, marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in his political career.
Before his time at the Media Centre, Opondo served as Director of Information and Public Relations at the Movement Secretariat from 2002, succeeding Winnie Byanyima, and has been the official NRM spokesperson since 2003. His experience spans two decades of crafting President Museveni’s election campaigns, from 2001 to 2016, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the party’s messaging and media strategy.
Now, with his unopposed victory, Opondo is poised to represent Older Persons in the Eastern Region in the 12th Parliament, while simultaneously contributing to the NRM’s broader strategy for 2026. But the question remains: Can the opposition regroup and mount a credible challenge, or will Opondo’s efforts ensure another NRM victory? Let us know what you think—this is one political saga you won’t want to miss.
