The newly elected National Resistance Movement (NRM) party leaders in Tororo County have rejected a directive issued by the party’s Electoral Commission chairperson, Dr. Tanga Odoi, overturning the election of Jane Okurut as Chairperson of the Women’s League and declaring Annet Nyakecho the winner.
Godfrey Othieno Otabong, the NRM district branch chairperson, said the directive was rejected on grounds that the principles of natural justice were not followed. He argued that they cannot allow a popular and transparent victory to be unjustly overturned.
According to Otabong, following a petition by Nyakecho, neither Okurut nor the district party registrar was given an opportunity to respond or present their case before the decision was taken.
In a letter dated June 4, 2025, Dr. Tanga instructed the district registrar to declare Annet Nyakecho the winner, claiming she polled 46 votes against Okurut’s 65.
Tanga stated, “We have considered the petition against the election of the Women’s League Chairperson and resolved that the total number of voters for the position was 80. Nyakecho scored 44 votes, leaving a balance of 36 votes. It was therefore irregular to declare the person who polled 65 votes as the winner.”
This decision has sparked outrage among area party leaders and members, especially given that Nyakecho’s earlier plea to be elected as Vice Chairperson and was publicly rejected by voters.
Otabong condemned Tanga’s actions, accusing him of consistently undermining the operations of the Tororo district NRM office and threatening to close it.
He emphasized that the district leadership would formally notify the secretariat of their refusal to cooperate with Dr. Tanga’s decision.
Meanwhile, Otabong informed members of the District Executive Committee (DEC) of the upcoming swearing-in ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, June 10, 2025.
He noted that other petitions remain pending, including those against the Entrepreneur League Chairperson, allegedly not registered in the NRM party and members of the Veterans League over the absence of official discharge letters.
Jane Okurut has expressed deep disappointment over Tanga’s decision of overturning her victory but remained defiant, thanking the people of Tororo County for entrusting her with leadership.
“I have nothing to fear. My victory was earned in broad daylight,” she stated, urging Nyakecho to join the winning team and work together to mobilize for the party and the President.
Auma Zebia Margaret from Akadot, elected as the Publicity Secretary, also criticized Tanga’s directive and vowed to petition the secretariat.
Catherine Adong from Magodes Town Council, elected as Vice Chairperson, confirmed that the election process was free and fair. She called on women in Tororo to rise and defend their democratic choice against external interference.