Pallisa, Uganda: Independent parliamentary candidate Hebert Okello has formally conceded defeat in the Agule County Member of Parliament race, congratulating National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer Josephine Ibaseret on her victory in what he described as a spirited and competitive contest.
Okello, who emerged second with 5,043 votes, trailed Ibaseret, who secured 9,447 votes out of a total of 20,054 ballots cast.
Addressing journalists at a press briefing on Monday, Okello urged his supporters to remain calm, respect the outcome, and rally behind Ibaseret as the duly elected MP for Agule County.
“I have no problem with the declaration, regardless of how it happened. I will not give any excuse of going to court. Whoever is interested in court is free because it is a right, but not me,” Okello said.
He emphasized that those who did not vote for Ibaseret should not be treated as adversaries, noting that the election reflected diverse choices among the electorate.
“Out of the 20,054 people who voted, 9,447 chose Ibaseret. The remaining 11,607 who supported us should not be taken as enemies. I have already reached out, and we shared a common purpose,” Okello added.
Ibaseret is set to assume office in May 2026 after the expiry of the term of the incumbent Agule MP, Hon. David Ochwa.
Similarly, Pallisa District Woman Member of Parliament Kevin Kaala Ojinga also conceded defeat in her race, saying the will of the people must be respected.
“It was not a do-or-die contest. Much as I wanted to return to Parliament, the people have spoken and I have no questions. I urge our supporters to avoid unnecessary debates over a done deal because it will take Pallisa nowhere,” Kaala said.
In her reaction, Agule MP-elect Josephine Ibaseret thanked voters across Pallisa for the support they have shown her political journey since 2016, calling for unity beyond the heated campaign period.
“I have no room in my heart or mind to store what happened during the campaigns. We stepped on each other’s toes, which should not be an issue now. I appreciate the spirit Hon. Kaala has shown, and I am glad she respected the people’s decision made on January 15, 2026,” Ibaseret said.
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