UPC President Akena dismisses claims that the party is fading from Uganda’s political landscape
By Moses Olet Emor
UPC Party President Jimmy James Michael Akena has dismissed claims that the party is fading from Uganda’s political landscape, saying recent election results show that the party remains strong, especially in Northern Uganda.
Akena says the Uganda People’s Congress continues to enjoy solid grassroots support despite what he describes as a hostile electoral environment.
Speaking to the press today at his home in Senior Quarters, Lira City West Division, following the Ajuri election and the divisional mayoral polls in Lira City, Akena said the party’s performance proves its resilience.
“The fact that the people of Ajuri came forth and supported the UPC candidate, I think it’s a testament to the strength of UPC on the ground,” he said.
In the Ajuri election, UPC’s Fred Jalameso defeated Government Chief Whip Denis Hamson Obua.
Akena noted that while the ruling National Resistance Movement won the majority of parliamentary and presidential races in Lira City, UPC secured the two divisional mayoral seats and the majority of councillor positions using the biometric voter verification system.
“I don’t think the results of the 15th of January truly reflect what is on the ground in Lira,” he said. “What happened yesterday on the division mayors using the BVK machine shows the level of support.”
He attributed previous losses to what he termed unfair electoral practices, including intimidation and the lack of a level playing field, citing the defunding of political parties ahead of elections.
“It was definitely not a level playing field. I have had problems with RCCs and RDCs acting completely outside the law, even brandishing weapons against political leaders,” he said. “That is totally unacceptable.”
“I think it’s false hope that NRM believes it is dominating the region, because the results on the ground tell a very different story.”, he continued.
Akena also acknowledged internal party challenges, including members who supported rival political parties. He said the party will carry out an internal review aimed at rebuilding unity and strengthening its structures.
He congratulated all UPC leaders who were elected and urged them to focus on service delivery and serve in the interests of the people who voted them into office.
