Can Vice President Alupo Unite a Divided Teso?

The 2021–2026 term saw Teso positioned with significant representation at the highest levels of Ugandan government, including Vice President Jessica Alupo and Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among. This concentration of power initially sparked hopes for increased unity and development in the region.

However, these aspirations have been overshadowed by political infighting, particularly among factions associated with key leaders. This discord has reportedly filtered down to local governance, leaving the Teso agenda neglected as leaders focused more on their individual constituencies.

Residents expressed disappointment that despite having influential figures in government, tangible progress on crucial infrastructure projects, such as road rehabilitation in districts like Kumi, Serere, Kaberamaido, and Amuria, did not materialize as expected.

With the political landscape shifting, including the diminished role of the former Speaker, the onus now falls on Vice President Alupo to bridge these divides. The current cabinet appointments for Teso, while reduced in number, appear to have a more cohesive working relationship with the Vice President, offering a potential pathway towards collective action.

Calls are being made for the Vice President to prioritize key development initiatives, including irrigation projects to address climatic challenges affecting agriculture and the completion of promised restocking programs. There is also a sentiment that leaders at the national level must better understand their roles and responsibilities within the broader governmental framework, rather than overestimating their individual influence.

Furthermore, some observers suggest that a stronger opposition presence in the past helped keep the government more accountable to regional needs. The success of uniting Teso now hinges on whether the ruling party genuinely supports this unity or continues to benefit from divisions.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/will-vp-alupo-unite-teso-mps-ministers—5497914