Former Uganda High Commissioner to Canada, Ambassador Joy Ruth Aceng, has officially joined the race for the Kole District Woman Member of Parliament seat, setting the stage for a heated political showdown in the upcoming elections.

Ambassador Aceng, a seasoned politician and veteran opposition figure under the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) party, declared her intention to reclaim the seat she held during the 9th Parliament (2011–2016).

She made her return to active politics shortly after completing her diplomatic tour of duty in Ottawa, where she served from 2017 to 2024.

Aceng’s entry into the race has sent shock-waves through the Kole political landscape, with many of her opponents experiencing a noticeable dip in grassroots support.

Her early mobilization efforts, especially within UPC strongholds, have positioned her as a front-runner ahead of the party primaries, where she will face off with former MP Joy Atim Ongom for the party flag.

Despite serving as a diplomat in a government led by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), Aceng has maintained her UPC loyalty, a stance that initially surprised many political observers.

“Being appointed ambassador did not erase my beliefs. I remain committed to the UPC and to building a nation that works for all Ugandans,” Aceng said during a recent media interview.

Since March 2025, she has intensified her presence on the ground, camping in Kole District and conducting community engagement meetings focused on healthcare, youth empowerment, education, and infrastructure development.

“Joy Ruth Aceng has always been committed to our community interests. We trust she will represent us well and work tirelessly for our progress,” said Betty Adongo, a resident of Aboke Sub-county.

Remarkably, Aceng’s appeal appears to transcend political affiliations. Benard Okello, a prominent NRM supporter from Alito Sub-county, has publicly endorsed her candidacy.

“Even though I belong to NRM, I am ready to vote for Joy Ruth Aceng because I believe she will lead us effectively in Parliament,” Okello stated.

Political analysts describe Aceng as a formidable candidate, citing her blend of legislative experience, diplomatic credentials, and grassroots credibility as key assets in her campaign.

During one of her mobilization rallies, Aceng expressed appreciation for the overwhelming support from Kole voters and promised to leverage her international networks to drive development in the district.

“I am humbled by the people’s trust. I commit to championing their concerns in Parliament and ensuring Kole’s voice is heard at the national level,” she said.

Who is Joy Ruth Aceng?

Joy Ruth Aceng previously served as Kole Woman MP during the 9th Parliament and was an active member of the Physical Infrastructure Committee and the HIV/AIDS Committee.

In 2017, she was appointed Uganda’s High Commissioner to Canada, a position she held for seven years.

She holds a Master’s degree in Management Studies and a Bachelor’s degree in Education. Her academic background, coupled with her experience in public service, is widely viewed as a major strength as she seeks to return to Parliament.