State Minister for Works, Mr Musa Francis Ecweru, has formally withdrawn from the Amuria County parliamentary contest, ending weeks of political tension and speculation in the district.
The minister, who had opted to contest as an independent candidate following his loss in the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) primary to Samuel Ediau, made the decision public on Tuesday afternoon, citing ‘deep reflection and consultation with party and community leaders.’
In a formal withdrawal letter to the district’s Electoral Commission returning officer, Mr Ecweru said his decision was in the interest of party harmony and cohesion.
‘After consultation with my NRM party leaders, my agents, my personal reflection, I have decided to withdraw from the parliamentary race for Amuria County 2026/2031,’ reads the letter dated November 9, a copy of which was seen by this publication.
Mr Ecweru has represented Amuria County in Parliament since 2006.
His chief campaign agent, Mfr Nathan Okiror appealed to supporters to remain calm and peaceful in the wake of the announcement, describing the moment as difficult but necessary.
‘Amidst all that is happening, I urge you to remain calm. Support whichever candidate you wish, but avoid any distraction. It’s painful, but this is his decision, and we must respect it. Leadership comes and goes; unity and coordination are what matter most,’ he said.
Just a month ago, Mr Ecweru publicly defended his independent candidacy, stating that stepping down would be akin to ‘legitimising crime.’ The bid had galvanised supporters who viewed him as a resilient and seasoned leader with a two-decade parliamentary record.
However, his decision reshapes the contest and withdrawal marks a significant turning point in Amuria’s political landscape and could influence the balance of power ahead of the 2026 elections.
While his team did not provide detailed reasons for the change, sources close to his camp indicate that consultations with senior NRM leaders played a decisive role. Party elders reportedly encouraged him to step aside in the interest of unity and cohesion in the Teso sub-region.
NRM loyalists in Amuria have welcomed the decision, interpreting it as a demonstration of maturity, loyalty, and statesmanship.
‘Hon. Ecweru has shown that he values the unity of the NRM family above personal ambition,’ said a district party official.