UPC's Akena: "I won't contest for presidency because I won't win"

The Uganda People’s Congress(UPC) president, Jimmy Akena, has expressed his dissatisfaction about party members and other Ugandans who are pushing him to stand for presidency.

While speaking to the media on Thursday, Akena said standing for presidency is not the only way one can contribute towards making Uganda a better country.

Last month, UPC declared that they will not field a presidential flag bearer in the 2021 general election.

Akena said he opted to run for the Lira East Municipality parliamentary seat instead of contesting for the country’s top seat.

This is the second successive time UPC has not fielded anyone for the presidency.

Akena also declined to run for presidency in the 2016 general election.

The last time UPC fielded a presidential candidate was in 2011 elections under the then party president, Olara Otunnu.

According to Akena, an individual should go where he or she feels comfortable to serve the people of Uganda.

"I am preparing to contest for Lira City East. My request to the members is go for a position where you can remain relevant. Go where you are able to serve your people,"he said.

Akena said quitting the presidential race was an intended move because the party does not have enough resources for campaigns.

He said much effort will be put towards making sure that the party wins more seats at parliamentary level and other positions in the 2021 general election.

"I have put and redoubled my efforts to support and campaign for UPC Candidates at all levels," Akena noted.

The party also brought its deadline for nominations for various electable positions closer from 25th September to 11th September 2020.