Peter Lonya has clinched the National Resistance Movement (NRM) chairmanship for Kotido District, edging out former Member of Parliament Moses Bildad Adome in a hotly contested rerun that signals a steep decline in Adome’s political clout.
Lonya, who currently serves as the LC3 Chairperson for West Division in Kotido Municipality, won with 79 votes against Adome’s 74.
The election followed a nullification of the earlier process by NRM Electoral Commission Chairperson Tanga Odoi last week.
The initial poll was marred by allegations of malpractice, including reports of voter intimidation and abduction.
Viral videos on social media captured men alleging their wives had been kidnapped and coerced into voting for a rival.
Adome, once a vocal and visible political figure, has seen his influence dwindle since voting against the age limit removal bill during his term as Jie County MP.
That vote alienated him from several NRM leaders in the Karamoja sub-region, leading to his marginalisation within party structures and eventual loss of his parliamentary seat in 2021.
The rerun, which drew keen interest across the Karamoja sub-region, was for the district party chairmanship—arguably the most coveted position in the NRM’s local leadership.
In his post-election remarks, Lonya appealed for unity and inclusivity.
“This victory is not just mine. It belongs to the people of Kotido,” he said.
“I call upon my brother Adome and all supporters to join hands as we move forward.”
The NRM Electoral Commission praised the rerun’s conduct, saying it demonstrated the party’s commitment to fairness and internal democracy.
Party officials hope the peaceful conclusion to the contest will set the tone for unity ahead of upcoming national electoral activities.