The race for the vacant Dokolo District Woman parliamentary seat intensified as seven candidates were nominated by the Electoral Commission (EC) to vie for the position left vacant by the passing of the Rt. Hon. Cecilia Barbara Atim Ogwal on January 18 2024.
Under the watchful eye of Dokolo District Returning Officer Steven Erikwaine Ngobi, the nomination process unfolded from Monday through yesterday, witnessing a mix of political fervor and apprehension.
Leading the pack is Dr. Rosemary Alwoc Ogwal, the daughter of the late Cecilia Barbara Atim Ogwal, representing the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC). Ogwal's nomination sets the stage for a familial bid to carry on her mother's legacy in parliament.
Competing against Ogwal are Janet Adongo Elau of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), and Sarah Aguti Nyangkori of the Uganda People's Congress (UPC), both of whom were defeated by the late Ogwal in the 2021 parliamentary elections.
Also joining the race are independent candidates Dr. Esther Akullo Obot Otada and Dr. Grace Anna Lalam, alongside Harriet Ageno of the National Unity Platform (NUP).
Adding a twist to the proceedings, Rebecca Aroa, the former Dokolo District Workers’ representative, nominated on Tuesday, throws her hat into the ring, further enriching the political landscape.
As the candidates gear up for the campaign trail, concerns have been raised regarding intimidation tactics allegedly orchestrated by security forces.
Dr. Lalam, an independent candidate, lamented, "The process has not been so easy because I passed through a lot of intimidation from other parties, most especially the party where I am leaning to (NRM). They wanted me to step down. So, we have been living in fear."
In response, the Police in the North Kyoga Region assured the public of security and peace throughout the electoral process.
Superintendent of Police Patrick Jimmy Okema affirmed, "Our presence is for everyone and we are not targeting a particular candidate. Our security is offered to everybody."
Dokolo District Police Commander, SP Patience Baganzi, echoed this sentiment, urging aspirants to abide by electoral guidelines while cautioning against any infractions.
"As police, we shall be there and give the necessary security," she emphasized, underscoring the police force's commitment to ensuring a fair and secure electoral environment.
With the Electoral Commission setting March 21 as the day for elections, the spotlight now shifts to the candidates as they navigate the intricacies of campaigning amidst a charged political atmosphere in Dokolo District.
