The second runner-up for the National Youth MP slot, Mercy Kanyesigye, has petitioned party chairperson Yoweri Museveni to intervene in the just concluded NRM youth elections, which she described as marred by intimidation and voter bribery allegedly orchestrated by government ministers and security personnel.
A jubilant Kanyesigye, flanked by supporters from West Nile and Northern Uganda, told journalists that the polls were not free and fair, citing what she termed external interference that influenced the results.
“I appreciate the different sub-regions—namely Acholi, West Nile, Lango, Greater Masaka, Greater Mubende, and Mpigi—who were at the center of intimidation but stood firm and refused to be silenced. What we experienced was not free and fair elections, which undermines our constitutional right to vote leaders of our choice,” Kanyesigye said.
Kanyesigye, who polled 1,269 votes against Diana Ampaire, alleged widespread intimidation and threats by Resident District Commissioners (RDCs).
“This is unconstitutional and undermines the party process regardless of the intimidation by RDCs. I call upon all my supporters across the country to remain calm. I will inform you of the next step after consultations with my voters nationwide. I have not lost hope,” she said.
Her group, which vowed not to be intimidated, accused cabinet ministers of interfering with the elections to block her victory.
“Our party chairperson Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has been fighting such malpractices and should investigate and summon all those party officials and government ministers who engaged in voter intimidation and bribery,” Kanyesigye added.
In the final tally, Diana Ampaire won the NRM youth elections with 58.6 percent of the vote, while Kanyesigye secured 38.9 percent.
