A river does not boast about its depth, but its impact is felt far and wide. And in the waters of Uganda’s politics, Julius Apeku is making quiet but powerful waves.
A respected scholar, politician, and peacebuilder from Arua in the West Nile region, Apeku has spent years at the heart of political mobilization.
He was once a key strategist for Robert Kyagulanyi’s National Unity Platform (NUP), playing a major role in the 2020 presidential campaigns. The historic Olii rally in Arua, which drew one of the largest crowds of the season, was a product of his team’s unmatched planning.
But since politics is a game of shifting alliances, Apeku stepped away from NUP after elections, choosing to focus on his academic and professional work. Yet, his political journey was far from over.
In a move that has sparked fresh debate in opposition politics, Apeku has emerged again, as a key leader in the newly formed People Power Front (PPF).
Alongside his longtime ally, Spartan Mukagyi, he has taken up the role of Acting Spokesperson of the movement. With figures like Hadji Musa Misango (Chairperson) and Mukagyi (Secretary General) leading the charge, PPF is positioning itself as a fresh alternative in Uganda’s political landscape.
While details about the movement’s long-term strategy remain under wraps, analysts are closely watching how PPF will challenge existing political structures.
With an upcoming delegates’ conference, the group is expected to unveil its official leadership and direction.
Politics aside, Apeku is a man of many hats. He is a lecturer at Nile University and the Director of Peacebuilding Programs at Oasis Peace Web Organization.
His expertise in conflict resolution, peace education, and community development has made him a key figure in efforts to foster social cohesion in West Nile.
Armed with a Master’s Degree in Sustainable Peace and Conflict Management, Apeku has worked on initiatives tackling ethnic tensions, land disputes, and refugee integration.
Through his organization, Initiatives for Community Transformation West Nile (ICoT-WN), he has led youth empowerment programs and economic development projects aimed at addressing the root causes of conflict.
Julius Apeku represents a new breed of Ugandan leaders, those who persue both political activism and grassroots transformation.
His journey from a political strategist to a peacebuilder and back into political leadership highlights his belief that true change must be driven by both governance and community empowerment.
SOURCE: The Ankole Times