National Resistance Movement (NRM) party members in Tororo County have abstained from participating in the party’s voter register clean up exercise which commenced on Wednesday. This decision led to the suspension of the activity by the party secretariat until the issues raised by the members are addressed.
The NRM Communications Director, Mr Emmanuel Dombo, who also oversees activities in Bukedi and Bugisu regions, confirmed the development. He stated that unlike other areas within the two regions, supporters from Tororo North and South counties opted out of the exercise. This decision was reportedly influenced by their leaders who demobilized them in protest of the dismissal of the registrar for Tororo County office.
The former registrar, Mr Joseph Joe Oburu, was relieved of his duties by the party’s electoral commission due to his status as a civil servant, which contravenes the party’s constitution. Despite efforts to reach an agreement between the secretariat and party leaders of the two counties, no resolution was reached, prompting the suspension of the exercise.
Mr Dombo expressed his communication with the party secretariat, seeking guidance on the next steps. Additionally, the party’s vice national chairperson has initiated discussions with leaders from Tororo County to find a solution.
Once an agreement is reached, the party intends to resume the exercise to ensure the availability of valid registers in every village, essential for future party activities. However, during the initial phase of the exercise, some villages in the district experienced low turnout.
The Tororo Municipality MP and district party chairperson, Mr Yeri Apollo Ofwono, expressed optimism that all members would be served within five days. He noted that each electoral area received sufficient materials and trained village registrars. He urged the registrars to conduct the exercise with integrity and avoid external influences, emphasizing collaboration with village chairpersons for accurate identification of residents. Additionally, efforts to mobilize residents through local radio stations were underway.
