Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gen. Abubakar Jeje Odongo, has officially been nominated to contest the Orungo County Parliamentary seat in Amuria District as an independent candidate.
Speaking after his nomination, Gen. Odongo expressed excitement about returning to Orungo County and pledged to unite the community while creating economic opportunities for every family, targeting an annual income of between Shs 5 million and Shs 10 million.
He also outlined plans to eliminate grass-thatched huts in the area by promoting the construction of permanent homes. His manifesto emphasizes key initiatives including boosting agriculture, improving the road network, and strengthening the health sector.
When asked about his absence from the NRM party primaries, Gen. Odongo explained that national duties in China, Russia, and Turkey during the nomination period prevented his participation, prompting him to run as an independent candidate.
The second day of nominations also saw other aspirants cleared for the elections, including NRM’s Samuel Ediau for Amuria County, NUP’s Moses Ariong for Amuria County, independent candidate Sarah Specioza Abeja for Woman MP, and NRM’s Margaret Etilu.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has instructed all nominated candidates or their chief agents to meet at the EC offices in Amuria to plan a collaborative campaign program, as confirmed by District Returning Officer Daniel Othieno Kiracho.
On the first day of nominations, the cleared candidates included NRM’s Teddy Anyuk Osire for Orungo County, independent candidates Joseph Epilu and Musa Francis Ecweru for Amuria County, FDC’s Debora Mary Aleo for Woman MP, Samuel Olinga for Amuria County, and Fred Eseru for Orungo County.
Gen. Odongo’s entry adds a high-profile independent option to what is shaping up to be a competitive race in Orungo County.
