James Leku Pilli Sworn In as MP for Adjumani West, Replacing the Late Gen. Moses Ali

The Ugandan Parliament welcomed its newest member, James Leku Pilli, who was sworn in as the Member of Parliament for Adjumani West County. Leku takes over the seat previously held by the late General (Rtd) Moses Ali, a prominent figure who served in various ministerial roles and as an MP for East Moyo County for over two decades.

Leku, representing the National Resistance Movement (NRM), secured a decisive victory in the recent by-election held on September 17, 2026. He garnered 12,423 votes, significantly outperforming his sole opponent, independent candidate Draga Gasper, who received 2,559 votes. Leku’s prior experience includes serving as the Chairperson of the Local Government for Adjumani District.

Upon taking the oath of allegiance and Member of Parliament, Leku was presented with a copy of the Constitution and the Rules of Procedure by Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth. In his inaugural address, Leku pledged to continue the development initiatives started by his predecessor. He specifically highlighted key projects such as the bridge connecting the River Nile to Moyo district and South Sudan, and the road infrastructure linking Yumbe, Obongi, and Adjumani districts to South Sudan.

Speaker Oboth commended Leku for his immediate engagement, noting that he set a precedent as the first legislator in the 12th Parliament to deliver a speech on his swearing-in day. The State Minister for Transport, Julius Maganda, confirmed that funding for the proposed bridge construction has been secured and a contract signing is imminent, expressing the need for Leku’s cooperation in community engagement for smooth project execution.

This development marks a new chapter for Adjumani West County and continues the legacy of parliamentary representation following the passing of Gen. Moses Ali in July.