Nakapiripirit | Uganda — The Nakapiripirit District Returning Officer, Mr. Otim Januarius, has reaffirmed the Electoral Commission’s commitment to conducting a credible, transparent, and constitutionally guided election on January 15, despite escalating political tensions in the district.
The assurance was made during a heated stakeholders’ meeting held at the Electoral Commission offices, attended by candidates contesting for MP and Woman MP seats, security agencies, district leaders, and Electoral Commission officials. The gathering was convened to calm mounting political friction ahead of next week’s polls.
The meeting brought together the military, police, DISO, LC V chairman, and candidates from Chekwii and Chekwii East constituencies, as well as Woman MP contenders. The Chekwii race pits incumbent Moses Aleper against Simon Peter Lochubakori (NRM flag bearer), while Chekwii East features Lokoru Stevenson (NRM flag bearer) and Karamoja Affairs Minister Peter Lokeris.
The Woman MP race remains the most contentious, attracting an opposition candidate in the predominantly NRM-supported Karamoja region. FDC candidate Nate Ziporra, aligned to the political bloc of FDC strong figure Nandala Mafabi, is facing a tough contest against Minister of State for Labour and Employment Affairs Esther Anyakun Davinia (NRM flag bearer) and media personality Lopuwa Lilly Odar, following unresolved tensions from last year’s NRM primaries.
Although Minister Lokeris did not attend the Wednesday meeting for undisclosed reasons, sources described his absence as easing potential confrontation, amid deepening political rivalry and accusations exchanged among some candidates.
EC Boss Stands Firm
Addressing the gathering, Returning Officer Otim emphasized that the Electoral Commission is fully prepared and will not bow to intimidation or political pressure.
“I am a teacher and former seminarian. I am never corruptible. Be aware that we can never be intimidated by anybody, whatever position you hold. What we are doing is Electoral Commission work which is mandated under the Constitution,” remarked an angry EC boss, Otim.
He revealed that a biometric voter verification system has been deployed at all 80 polling stations to ensure transparency and guard against electoral malpractice. He urged candidates to appoint at least two polling agents per station to support transparency efforts.
Otim made the remarks while responding to concerns raised by Minister Anyakun, who alleged bias in the selection of polling officials and issued stern warnings over feared vote manipulation.
Security Issues and Rising Tensions
The meeting also heard security briefings following reports of heightened anxiety among supporters and isolated incidents of civilians erecting illegal night roadblocks in parts of Namalu Sub-county, allegedly to monitor suspected voter bribery activities.
Nakapiripirit District Police Commander Godfrey Egwangu warned that security agencies would act decisively against hooliganism.
He also confirmed ongoing investigations into allegations that some candidates may have smuggled firearms into the district, calling the situation “regrettable but firmly under scrutiny.”
Meanwhile, RDC Ajilong Bessic Modesta urged candidates to intensify peaceful grassroots mobilization and present themselves as leaders of integrity rather than fueling hostility.
She reiterated that her office would not involve itself in partisan local politics, instead focusing on ensuring a peaceful environment and executing national responsibilities.
EC: The Will of the People Will Prevail
Despite heightened tension, the Electoral Commission maintains that next week’s elections will proceed fairly, transparently, and in line with democratic principles.
“We are ready to deliver a credible election that reflects the true will of the people of Nakapiripirit,” Otim assured.
As campaigns continue, all eyes remain on Nakapiripirit, where political enthusiasm, rivalry, and expectations are at their peak ahead of the 15th January polls.
