Gen. Jeje Odongo Defends Independent Bid for Orungo County Seat

Foreign Affairs Minister, General Jeje Odongo Abubakar, has defended his decision to contest as an independent candidate for the Orungo County parliamentary seat in the 2026 general elections. The minister, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Orungo County in Amuria District, says circumstances beyond his control prevented him from participating in the ruling party’s internal elections.

Gen. Odongo explained that during the National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries, he was out of the country on official government duties. By the time he returned, the primaries had already been concluded, leaving him with no opportunity to take part in the process.

“I did not participate in the NRM primaries because I was fulfilling official assignments outside the country. When I came back, the exercise was already done. I still believe I have a responsibility to complete the work we started,” Gen. Odongo stated.

He emphasized that his decision to run as an independent is not a sign of conflict with the party but rather a move to ensure continuity in ongoing development programs within the constituency. Odongo highlighted key initiatives he intends to finalize if re-elected, particularly those aimed at improving household incomes and empowering families economically.

“This will be my last term if the people give me the mandate. I want to complete the development projects we started, especially efforts to uplift household incomes and strengthen family livelihoods,” he noted.

Gen. Odongo has been a longstanding political figure in the region, and his independent bid sets the stage for a competitive race in Orungo County as the 2026 elections draw closer.

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