Serere, Uganda: Esther Lucy Acom, who recently contested the NRM Woman MP primaries in Serere District, has officially announced her candidacy as an independent following the NRM tribunal’s dismissal of her petition against Hellen Adoa Abeku’s victory on 17th July 2025.
Acom had challenged Adoa’s election, alleging electoral malpractice, including the distribution of cards to 150 agents per village, an act she argued could have influenced voter behavior. The tribunal, however, ruled that her evidence fell short of proving bribery or manipulation sufficient to overturn the results.
Undeterred by the ruling, Acom declared her independent campaign with a symbolic choice of a chair as her ballot emblem.
“I have chosen a chair as my ballot symbol. The reason is that the flag is hers, but the seat is mine,” she stated, signaling her resolve to connect directly with constituents and champion their interests beyond party politics.

During the NRM primaries, Adoa was declared winner with 32,922 votes against Acom’s 21,175, a margin that has not shaken Acom’s determination.
Her campaign now pivots toward grassroots engagement, aiming to appeal to voters who value authenticity and independent representation.
Observers note that Acom’s decision introduces a new dynamic into Serere’s political landscape, potentially drawing support from constituents seeking alternatives to the mainstream party structure.
Analysts suggest her campaign’s success will hinge on her ability to mobilize voters, communicate her vision, and clearly differentiate herself from Adoa.
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