Okwang John Bosco Enters 2026 MP Race for Tepeth, Prioritizes Water, Health, and Education

Okwang John Bosco, a prominent community leader in Karamoja, on Saturday, June 7, 2025, officially picked nomination forms from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Commission headquarters in Kyadondo, Kampala, as he declared his intention to contest for the Member of Parliament seat for Tepeth County in the upcoming 2026 general elections.

This development comes amidst the NRM's nationwide expression of interest exercise, which was launched on June 2, 2025, and is scheduled to run until June 15. The exercise aims to identify capable and committed individuals to represent the party at various levels, including parliamentary, district chairperson, and other key local government positions. Official nominations are set for June 17, according to NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson, Dr. Tanga Odoi.

Addressing a group of supporters after picking the forms, Okwang John Bosco reiterated his unwavering commitment to the development and transformation of the Tepeth Constituency. He unveiled a five-point manifesto that underscores his priorities if elected to Parliament under the NRM ticket.

Manifesto Highlights

Efficient and Effective Service Delivery:

Okwang pledged to bridge the gap between government services and the people of Tepeth by promoting transparency, accountability, and timely delivery of public services across all sectors.

Education:

He emphasized his passion for strengthening the education sector by improving school infrastructure, increasing access to educational materials, and advocating for teacher welfare to enhance learning outcomes.

Human and Animal Health:

Acknowledging the pastoral nature of the Tepeth community, Okwang stressed the need for reliable health services for both people and livestock. He promised to lobby for improved health facilities, medical supplies, and veterinary outreach programs.

Improved WASH Facilities:

He highlighted the urgent need for access to clean water and improved sanitation, especially through the drilling and rehabilitation of boreholes.

“Safe water is not a luxury; it is a right for every citizen,” he noted.

Community Livelihoods and Economic Empowerment:

Okwang committed to advocating for improved livelihoods through lobbying for support in micro-businesses, women and youth entrepreneurship, and agricultural development. He believes in a bottom-up approach that empowers communities to thrive economically.

The NRM’s ongoing expression of interest exercise has drawn participation from across the country, with party members queuing up to pick nomination forms in hopes of securing the ruling party’s flag for the 2026 elections. Dr. Tanga Odoi confirmed that the process is running smoothly and reaffirmed the party's commitment to a fair, transparent, and participatory internal election process.

“Any member vying for a parliamentary seat must pay a non-refundable fee of three million shillings,” Dr. Tanga told the press, adding that the NRM is determined to front candidates who reflect the party’s core values of patriotism, service, and development.

Okwang John Bosco’s entry into the race signals a renewed sense of hope and aspiration for the people of Tepeth. His grassroots connection, coupled with a well-laid-out development agenda, has already sparked positive reactions among constituents who believe his leadership could be transformative.

As the 2026 general elections draw closer, Okwang is expected to intensify his mobilization efforts, engaging voters across Tepeth in dialogue and consultation to ensure their voices remain central in his journey to Parliament.