Related Articles
BY RICHARD DRASIMAKU
ARUA: WEDNESDAY, JULY 30, 2025
Arua City members of the National Resistance Movement have elected as their flag bearer, a 25-year-old electrical engineer who will represent the party in the general elections next year.
Lawrence Alionzi a.k.a Dangote is a fresh graduate and former Guild President of Makerere University who shifted political allegiance from the opposition National Unity Platform to the ruling NRM.
In a post-election interview, Alionzi expressed gratitude to God, saying that without his divine blessing a win against two seasoned politicians would have been impossible.
He beat the incumbent Sam Wadri Nyakua and former Mayor Al-hajj Isa Kato who came second and third respectively.
“When we started, there was more doubt than hope. I had not accumulated the kind of wealth that people have come to attribute with politicians seeking such positions,” he recalled.
Alionzi sees himself only as the apex of a movement by young people who campaigned against the odds and expectations that only those in position to splash cash handouts can win elections in Arua City and more so, the central Division.
“I thank the team of young men and women who dedicated themselves to work tirelessly even without any cash to canvass for votes and spent two days waiting at the tally center to ensure that no manipulation took place,” he said.
Alionzi commended the NRM for providing the platform for the internal democratic contest to take place and asserted that his win should make the party proud.
He told his supporters to cut their celebrations short and prepare for the general elections where the opposition is expected to field challengers.
“We have won the battle but the war is still not over. Let us have a short celebration and get ready for the final push,” he asserted.
He promised to do everything possible within the powers of the office of the city Mayor to serve diligently, clean the messy city of dirt and also the messy council and local governments at the Divisions.
To the youths who are the engine of the momentum behind his team, Alionzi promised to provide skills training opportunities and attract investments for job creation.
