Independent research conducted by our reporter has found beyond reasonable doubt that some MPs from the Northern part of Uganda are likely not to retain their seats due to poor public relations with their voters. Top on the list are high-profile Members of Parliament from Karamoja, Lango, Acholi, and West Nile sub-regions.
Facts on the ground indicate that some Members of the 11th Parliament may not return to the 12th Parliament due to accusations of intentionally refusing to pick up voters’ phone calls, switching off their phones, and poor representation of their voters during plenary and committee meetings.
Omara A., a 47-year-old man from Abim Town Council in Labwor Constituency, blamed some members of parliament in the area for deciding not to answer voters’ phone calls since the 2021 general election. He suggested they do this thinking local voters may demand money from them.
In Kotido Municipality, an electorate identified only as Apalokwang complained about the conduct of some MPs who ignore ordinary phone calls, labeling them as ‘money-demanding callers.’
In Agago District, a voter who spoke on condition of anonymity from Patongo Town Council said, “One of the MPs is only helping women and does not answer voters’ phone calls. They have even changed their phone number from known to unknown.”
Otto R. of Lira District noted that some MPs are only advised by their agents and quipped, “Let their agents elect them to Parliament if they are the majority voters.”
Another prominent voter from Dokolo Town Council said some MPs have set their phones on a busy mode, and such MPs may not return to the 12th Parliament of Uganda come 2026.
A voter in Gulu City, who wanted his name withheld, remarked that some MPs are stingy and do not want to hear any issues of fundraising or funeral contributions via phone calls. They are ever quiet on various WhatsApp forums, always switching off their phones and answering only family phone calls.
Lastly, a 65-year-old man from Apac District named Okello H. of Maruzi County criticized some MPs for not picking up new numbers, assuming voters always request money ranging from 20,000-50,000 UGX. He suggested their restricted phone numbers should be prepared to vote for them in 2026.
However, some have commended other MPs for always returning their calls whenever they get missed calls and promised to re-elect them. One MP from Kitgum, who spoke to our reporter on condition of anonymity, said there is a significant difference between the duties and obligations of an MP and what voters think their Member of Parliament should do for them while serving legislative roles in Parliament.
