Africa-Press – Uganda. Lira District Woman MP Linda Agnes Auma was on Friday elected the new National Resistance Movement (NRM) district chairperson, defeating long-time party stalwart and Presidential Advisor Sam Engola in a hotly contested election.
The vote, held at Itek Sub-county headquarters, followed two failed attempts in May that were suspended due to violent clashes between the camps.
Friday’s poll proceeded under tight security, with police deployed around Auma’s home in Barlwala, Lira City East Division, amid reports of early-morning tensions.
Auma secured 188 votes against Engola’s 155. The results were declared by Zirwaru Zaitun, a Commissioner from the NRM Electoral Commission.
“We commend the delegates for turning up in large numbers and participating peacefully. This is a sign that democracy is growing within the NRM,” Zaitun said, urging both camps to unite and work together.
Auma, emotional after the announcement, extended an olive branch to her rival.
“I sincerely apologize to Hon. Engola and all those hurt during the campaigns. This is not a victory for me alone, but for the party in Lira. We must move forward together,” she said.
Engola, however, rejected the results, citing irregularities.
“I am not satisfied with what happened here today. I will not sign any document and will petition the NRM electoral commission,” he said, leaving with his supporters shortly after the declaration.
In other results, George Abdul, a former Resident District Commissioner, was elected Vice Chairperson with 193 votes, defeating Peter Okello Oyo, who got 120.
Bonny Omara, the current Lira District Vice Chairperson, clinched the General Secretary post with 190 votes, beating Eng. Henry Jackson Odongo (105 votes).
Friday’s outcome is seen by many as a generational shift within the ruling party’s local leadership. The new team is expected to play a central role in NRM mobilization efforts ahead of the 2026 general elections.
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