Time is over, UPC's Akena calls for regime change in Uganda
Jimmy Akena Obote addresses a rally at Bala Primary School, Bala Town Council in Kole District on May 16, 2025. PHOTO | BILL OKETCH
What you need to know:
- Speaking to a packed football field at Bala Primary School in Kole District, Akena warned that anyone attempting to obstruct the people's quest for regime change would face severe consequences.
Uganda People's Congress (UPC) party president Jimmy Akena Obote has thrown down the gauntlet to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) administration, urging them to relinquish power and allow the people of Uganda to determine their own future.
Speaking to a packed football field at Bala Primary School in Kole District on May 16, 2025, Akena warned that anyone attempting to obstruct the people's quest for regime change would face severe consequences.
"Time is over. It's better you prepare to leave decently and let the people of Uganda continue with their future in their country," Akena said, his words echoing through the crowd. "I'm not after anybody, I am after the well-being of the people of Uganda. We want to see a Uganda that is prosperous, peaceful, and just for all its citizens."
Mr Akena, who is also the Member of Parliament for Lira City East Division, emphasised that the people of Uganda deserve to shine and that it's their time to take control of their future.
He warned that anyone standing in their way would be dealt with harshly, saying, "But I warn you, if you stand in the way of the people of Uganda, we are going through you because this is now our time. This is the time for the people of Uganda to shine in Uganda, and we are here to ensure that that one happens."
During his tour of Kole South and Kole North constituencies, Akena received overwhelming support from thousands of people who assured him of their backing should he contest for the presidency in the 2026 general elections.
The crowds were enthusiastic, with many expressing their desire for change and their willingness to support Akena's bid for the presidency.
Moved by the warm reception, Akena declared, "I am honored and I'm ready for that task. Jimmy Akena is going to be on the ballot. And we are in this race for the people – not for ourselves but for the people – to serve the interests of the people. That is the promise I make."
Akena has been mobilising support in the Lango Sub-region since the beginning of the year, solidifying the UPC's base ahead of the 2026 elections. He emphasized that the party's ambitious dream would be achieved through peaceful politics, creating a better vision for Uganda.
"And one reason why it is very important is that at this point in our journey, we must make change in Uganda. I am not going to change Uganda by violence. I do not want to change Uganda by tearing down anybody. It is the reason why you cannot insult other politicians. My purpose, my direction is to improve the lives of the citizens of Uganda. That is the mission."
