Africa-Press – Uganda. Tensions have flared in Karenga District, Karamoja, where angry residents have taken to the streets to protest delays in announcing the National Resistance Movement (NRM) primary results for the Kaabong District Woman MP race.
The demonstrations erupted amid allegations that Minister of State for Ethics and Integrity, Rose Lilly Akello, is attempting to block the declaration after reportedly losing to political newcomer Loe Doreen Imen.
Vote counting concluded on Thursday, July 17, 2025, and preliminary tallies from the district tally center indicate that Imen had secured a clear lead.
However, the official declaration has been delayed for three consecutive days, sparking accusations of interference and manipulation.
According to local sources, Minister Akello disputed the results shortly after tallying ended, claiming she had credible evidence of malpractice by her opponent.
Following her objections, NRM officials postponed the official announcement to Friday, but no declaration was made.
On Saturday, tensions escalated after reports emerged that Akello had directed the nullification of results from two sub-counties — Lobalangit and Kakwanga — where she reportedly performed poorly. Residents say this was a last-ditch attempt to reverse the outcome in her favor.
“She lost. Everyone saw the results. Now she wants to cancel votes from places she didn’t win,” said Michael Lokure, one of the demonstrators. “That is not leadership — it’s desperation.”
Protesters have since locked the gates to the tally center, demanding immediate release of the results and recognition of Imen as the duly elected NRM flag bearer.
“This is not democracy. If you lose, step aside and give others a chance,” said Obin Bonny, a resident of Lobalangit. “We’re tired of leaders who feel entitled to power.”
Security forces, including police and army personnel, have been deployed to maintain order as the situation grows increasingly volatile. Despite the heavy security presence, residents have vowed to maintain pressure until the results are released.
Efforts to reach Minister Akello for comment were unsuccessful by press time.
However, sources within the NRM indicate that the controversy has reached the party’s top leadership in Kampala.
The NRM Secretariat may be compelled to intervene if the standoff persists.
The incident reflects wider dissatisfaction across Karamoja, where several long-serving MPs and ministers have been voted out during the NRM primaries.
The outcomes have exposed deep voter frustration and demand for political change in a region long plagued by underdevelopment, insecurity, and political marginalisation.
For now, all eyes remain on the NRM Electoral Commission and its next move — as both protesters and party insiders warn that any attempt to subvert the people’s will could deepen divisions in the ruling party ahead of the 2026 general elections.
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