Elakas Walter Okiring Launches 2026 Toroma MP Bid Under NRM With Message Of Truth And Transformation

By Were Karim

In the quiet yet politically vibrant landscape of Toroma County, a familiar figure has once again stepped forward, seeking to represent his people with renewed vigor and a vision grounded in decades of public service.

Hon. Elakas Walter Okiring, a seasoned development worker and peacebuilder, has officially declared his intention to contest for Member of Parliament for Toroma County for the 2026–2031 term under the National Resistance Movement ( NRM), rallying under the slogan “Vote for Truth.”

Elakas is no stranger to the community he seeks to represent. His face, recently emblazoned across campaign posters in Katakwi and beyond, is not merely that of a politician—it is the image of a man who has built his career around the values of truth, governance, and community empowerment.

He stands as a symbol of continuity and tested leadership. His campaign message, “Einer Eitena / Abeit,” a local call for unity and service, underscores a grassroots approach to governance that seeks to bridge tradition and modern statecraft.

With over two decades of experience spanning peace building, governance, development work, and grassroots mobilization, Elakas brings to the race a robust resume and a history steeped in civic and political engagement.

From his early work as co-founder of the Katakwi Urafiki Foundation, where he focused on livelihood projects and inter-community conflict resolution, to his tenure as LCV Chairperson of Katakwi District, he has consistently positioned himself at the crossroads of community need and institutional response.

“What I have learned in my years of service,” Elakas noted in a community dialogue, “is that development is only meaningful when it touches people’s lives directly. You cannot talk about governance without talking about food on the table, access to justice, and the dignity of every household.”

Born on December 26, 1974, in Katakwi District, Elakas’s journey into leadership began early. His academic pursuits reflect a man shaped by intellectual rigor and practical engagement.

He holds a Master of Arts in Diplomacy, Governance, and International Affairs from Uganda Martyrs University, complemented by a Bachelor’s degree in Development Studies from Nkumba University. These academic qualifications are not just lines on paper; they have translated into tangible roles, including serving as Deputy RDC for Katakwi, Vice President of the Uganda Local Government Association (ULGA), and Research Officer in the Parliament of Uganda.

His professional path is marked by extensive involvement in conflict resolution between the Teso and Karamoja regions, research on human rights and land issues, and advocacy for internally displaced persons. His voice has resonated in national and regional peace forums, often representing Uganda in international dialogues on decentralization, small arms control, and humanitarian response.

But Elakas is not simply a technocrat. His political roots run deep within the ruling NRM party, having served as General Secretary for the party in Katakwi District.

He is also a familiar figure at state functions, often coordinating high-profile visits by the President and articulating government positions on local media.

In his campaign literature and public addresses, Elakas emphasizes a return to ethical leadership—governance that is accountable, participatory, and service-driven.

“We must speak the truth to our people and ensure they are part of the governance process,” he asserts. “My role is not just to speak in Parliament, but to be a voice, a bridge, and a servant.”

Supporters describe him as meticulous, diplomatic, and tireless. “Hon. Elakas doesn’t sleep when there’s work to do,” one local councilor shared. “He knows this district, and he’s walked with us through the hard times, displacement, floods, land disputes. He doesn’t wait for the cameras.”

As the 2026 election season takes shape, Elakas faces a political landscape that has grown increasingly competitive, with younger candidates vying for space.

However, his team remains confident. Backed by a campaign team under the banner “Team Chagua,” they are banking on his track record, deep local roots, and a message of truth and development to resonate with the electorate.

With endorsements from figures such as Hon. Ogwang Peter, Minister of State for Education and Sports, and Bulemu Elakas James from the Office of the President, Elakas’s bid is clearly more than symbolic and it is strategic, prepared, and founded on a clear sense of purpose.

Hon. Elakas Walter Okiring is not merely running for office—he is making a renewed promise to a constituency he has long served, pledging not just representation, but transformation.