1,300 delegates to vote in NRM primaries for Oyam North by-Election

OYAM, UGANDA: At least 1,300 delegates are scheduled to vote in the Oyam North NRM Primaries today, Saturday, June 17, 2023, at the Oyam District headquarters, DailyExpress can confirm.

While addressing members of the press on Friday evening at the Oyam District Council hall, Tanga Odoi, the chairman of the NRM Electoral Commission, assured the people of Oyam about the escalating complaints that some NRM delegates were ferried to the 291 Suites Hotel in Lira.

Mr Tanga Odoi promised to rush there to investigate the matter and resolve it before Saturday’s election.

However, the Electoral boss said he is investigating reports that four different aspirants also hid delegates in several places ahead of the NRM Primaries within Oyam, Gulu, and Lira. “Only those delegates whose names are officially known by the EC NRM will be allowed to vote.

Odoin assured that Saturday’s election will be conducted “without any fear or favour because we have no candidate who is being supported by NRM.”

“I can assure the voters and the people of Oyam that the NRM Electoral Commission is very prepared to conduct the NRM primary election for Oyam North. Nobody should intimidate anyone, as the election will not be chaotic,” said Mr Odoi.

He added that only the old delegates are the ones who are going to vote from Iceme.

Three candidates, Obangakene Augustine, Queen Dorothy Amolo, Willy Omodo Omodo, threatened to go independent if today’s NRM election is not free and fair.

So far, there are nine candidates in the race, according to Ogile Jakayo Phillips, the NRM Public Secretary for Oyam District.

According to Ogile, three candidates; Daniel Bala, Tony Adonyo, and Arinaitwe are not in the race.

Okello Engola Samuel, the son of the late Minister and area MP Charles Engola encouraged his supporters to stay calm and strong because he is confident of winning the race and carrying on his father’s legacy.