New NRM storm sweeps Bukedi region as all incumbents lose District Chairperson positions

The latest victory of newcomer Patrick Duchu in the Pallisa District LCV chairperson primaries for the ruling National Resistance Movements marks a complete sweep by newcomers over the incumbents in the region.

Duchu garnered 39,083 votes (28.8 percent) beating the incumbent John Michael Okurut who obtained 27,086 votes represent a 20 percent share.

Also in the race were; Joseph Okoboi Opolot who obtained 27,227 (20.1%), David Kedi Apua 25,848 (19%) and former Pallisa county MP Louis Opange  got 16,498 (12,2%).

The results were declared on Thursday following a botched exercise earlier after chaos disrupted the polls citing rigging.

Voting in at least 54 villages had to be repeated on instructions from the NRM EC chairman Tanga Odoi.

According to the NRM Returning Officer of Pallisa District, Jane Nangobi, although the results were not released over cases of vote-rigging finally the party has been successful to complete and declare the winner in by-elections without many challenges.

The results of the elections were readout with each candidate presenting only two agents at the tally center, while the candidates sat outside of the tally room.

There was chaos early in the day between voters of Apua and Duchu over illegitimate voters and vote-rigging.

The NRM EC chairperson for Pallisa District, George Oule Omoding called upon the losers to back the specific winners in their different races instead of deciding to contest as independent candidates.

“Leadership comes from God, I urge you all to support the NRM candidates as you wait for your chance,” he said.

Ducu, the winner in this elections said that he is aiming at uniting the people of Pallisa regardless of the tribe, party, and religion.

The trounced incumbent claimed the election was unfair and he will consult his supporters on the next course of action, which may among other include contesting as an independent candidate.

In the greater North Bukedi which consists: Pallisa, Kibuku,Butebo, and Budaka districts, no incumbent regained the flag.

Utility

Budaka District: Incumbent Samuel Mulomi lost to malwa vendor Emmanuel Pajje

Butebo District: Incumbent Samuel Kedi lost to James Okurut

Kibuku District: Incumbent Charles Kadyama lost to Muhammed Nakeba

Pallisa District: Incumbent John Micheal Okurut was felled by Patrick Ducu