Independent candidate Patricia Amne Aceng has withdrawn from the 2026 Lira City Woman Member of Parliament race, citing the need to preserve unity and harmony within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), where she maintains close political links.
In a letter dated December 5, 2025, addressed to the Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission, Aceng said her decision followed “extensive reflection and consultation with leadership and stakeholders” in the NRM.
Although running as an independent, Aceng was contesting against senior cabinet members, including incumbent Dr Jane Ruth Aceng of the NRM and Gender Minister Betty Amongi of the Uganda People’s Congress.
She explained that stepping down was necessary to prevent internal divisions within the NRM and safeguard the party’s cohesion ahead of what is expected to be a tense election period.
Aceng had earlier attempted to challenge Dr Aceng during the NRM primaries before opting to stand as an independent.
“This decision is guided by a commitment in safeguarding the values of the party, avoiding division among our supporters, and ensuring we present a united front in the upcoming elections,” her letter reads in part.
She also requested that the Electoral Commission remove her name from the ballot paper and confirmed she had attached all required documentation to formalise her withdrawal.
Her exit comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2026 general elections. Lira City is among the constituencies experiencing heightened political competition, and her withdrawal is expected to consolidate support behind the NRM’s preferred candidate, Dr Aceng.
