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The New Vision presidential opinion poll, published on 23rd June 2025, just told a story that many needed to hear namely that Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Uganda’s Minister of Health, is among the top female presidential choices nationwide. And more so, she is most favored in Northern Uganda where she hails from. Aceng’s numbers show that her impact is clear. Ugandans know substance when they see it.
And where is Betty Amongi—the long-serving minister, State House whisperer, and self-declared “Political Doctor”? Dead last at 0.5%. Not even a blip in her own backyard of Lango.
The contrast couldn’t be sharper. Aceng rose through service, making her mark as a hospital director, Director General and Minister for Health. She continued delivering to her people when they elected her to Parliament as Woman MP in 2021.
She has made waves across the country and in her constituency, building partnerships with all manner of individuals and communities. And Amongi? Despite 20+ years in the higher echelons of power, she has chosen actions that have consistently headlined scandals and self-promotion.
Some will say that Aceng is still basking in COVID pandemic glory. But let’s be honest—people don’t remember you for long unless you continue to impress and ultimately leave something behind. And Aceng has left impact where Amongi has left question marks! The contrast couldn’t be clearer.
The findings of this Vision Group survey mean a lot for Lango’s women. Their daughter, sister, mother… Dr. Aceng is admired across Uganda—because she works, leads and inspires as opposed to using her position to bully and put down others. She is the kind of role model Langis daughters deserve. This poll is more than just numbers. It’s a mirror.
Notably, Dr. Aceng won 15.6% of the total votes (6,006) in the entire Northern region, outpacing Betty Amongi, who only secured 2.4%. Dr. Aceng won all the other candidates—which speaks volumes about the value Northern Uganda places on her leadership. This overwhelming support is a clear reflection of her dedicated service to the people and the trust the people have in her ability to lead.
This success is not by chance. Dr. Aceng’s well illustrated political fortunes can be attributed on having been identified, mentored and guided by the leadership of HE Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. His wisdom has been integral in shaping her journey, enabling her to rise above challenges and serve the people of Uganda with distinction.
As Lira City heads into 2026, the choice is bigger than politics. It’s about who ought to be uplifted, followed and what legacy voters want for the next generation of women leaders.The people of Lira City will surely decide while celebrating good records of service and they are not expected to reward a history of spin, deception and mediocrity.


