As the 2026 general elections draw near and party nominations approach, the race for the Arua City Mayoral seat is intensifying. Over ten aspirants, including current Mayor Sam Wadri Nyakua, have declared their intention to contest, representing a broad spectrum of political affiliations. The National Resistance Movement (NRM) currently leads with the highest number of contenders.
The surge in interest follows an earlier announcement by Mayor Nyakua that he would retire after his current term, having previously served as Chairman of Arua District and now completing his first term as City Mayor. However, Nyakua has since reversed this decision and confirmed that he will be seeking re-election, significantly shifting the political landscape.
With the race becoming increasingly crowded, concerns have emerged over rising levels of mudslinging, propaganda, and character attacks among various camps. Several candidates have now come forward to condemn the growing negativity and are calling for a more respectful and issue-based campaign atmosphere.
Caesar Draecabo, a former President of the Arua City Development Forum and a mayoral hopeful, expressed alarm at the spread of misinformation, warning that it could sow division among the people of Ayivu and the wider Arua City community.
Echoing these sentiments, former Arua Municipality Mayor Isa Kato, who is vying for a comeback, urged fellow aspirants to prioritize policy debates and development agendas over personal attacks during their political consultations.
Mayor Nyakua, in confirming his candidacy, appealed for unity and political maturity. He cautioned against the personalization of politics and stressed the need to avoid actions that might fracture the electorate, particularly within the Ayivu constituency.
Key issues dominating the campaign discourse include transforming rural mindsets to meet urban standards, improving service delivery since Arua’s elevation to city status, addressing youth unemployment and crime, and creating an inclusive political space for all communities.
Since its transformation from a municipality covering 10 square kilometers to a city spanning 412 square kilometers, Arua City now comprises four parliamentary constituencies, a City Mayor, two Divisional Mayors, and numerous City Councilors. Despite its diverse and cosmopolitan makeup, tribal and religious considerations continue to heavily influence electoral dynamics.
As the political climate heats up, stakeholders across the board are calling for civility and constructive engagement to ensure a peaceful and progressive campaign season in Arua City.
