Politics 29 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Peter Lokeris exits Cabinet after 30-year ministerial tenure
President Museveni's recent cabinet reshuffle marks the end of Peter Lokeris's prominent 30-year career as a minister, primarily focusing on Karamoja Affairs. Lokeris, who transitioned from administrative roles to elective politics in 1996, has been a significant figure in the region's development and disarmament efforts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/cabinet-reshuffle-ends-peter-lokeris-30-year-ministerial-career-5477678
A significant shift in Uganda’s political landscape has occurred with President Yoweri Museveni’s latest cabinet reshuffle, which appears to conclude the three-decade long ministerial service of Peter Lokeris, the former Minister for Karamoja Affairs.
Lokeris first entered the political arena in 1996, winning the parliamentary seat for Chekwii County. His appointment as Minister of State for Karamoja Affairs quickly elevated his profile, establishing him as a crucial link between the Karamoja region and the central government.
Prior to his political career, Lokeris held various finance and administrative positions across different districts, including significant roles in Moroto and Kotido. Despite losing his parliamentary seat in the 2026 general election, he continued to lead the Karamoja Affairs ministry.
Reflecting on the changes, Lokeris expressed “utmost faith and humility,” reaffirming his loyalty to the ruling NRM party. His personal assistant confirmed that Lokeris is in good spirits following the announcement.
Residents of Karamoja have been vocal in their appreciation for Lokeris’s contributions. Many credit him with playing a pivotal role in the region’s pacification and disarmament campaigns during the early 2000s. “Because of that, the entire Karamoja is calm,” stated Stella Rose Nakwang, a local resident, highlighting his engagement with community leaders to achieve peace.
Furthermore, Nakwang attributed visible regional improvements, such as infrastructure development and burgeoning industries, to Lokeris’s efforts. “We are seeing factories and tarmac roads beginning to change the face of Karamoja. That I attribute to his contribution,” she added.
Others suggest the reshuffle might signal a new direction for Karamoja’s political leadership. “Maybe the President now wants to groom a new set of leaders in Karamoja, and that is why he has decided to retire Mr Lokeris from Cabinet,” commented Paul Abura, a local business owner.
This extensive period of service in ministerial roles underscores Lokeris’s long-standing impact on Karamoja’s governance and development. The transition marks a significant moment for the region’s political representation.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)