Kampala, Uganda: The closely contested election for the Workers’ Member of Parliament seat has triggered controversy and unrest among labour representatives, following claims of state-backed manipulation in a race won by just three votes.
Incumbent Workers MP Agnes Abwoli Kunihira, who has served two consecutive terms, was narrowly defeated by Fiona Nakku, in an outcome that has left many workers questioning the integrity and fairness of the process.
The dispute centres on allegations that Nakku’s candidature was heavily backed by Barbara Nekesa Oundo, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Treasurer, who is also said to be Nakku’s relative.
Critics argue that party resources and state machinery were allegedly deployed to tilt the contest against Abwoli, despite her being the recognised party flag bearer and enjoying broad support among workers’ delegates.
Nakku’s victory has further reignited debate due to her past disqualification from youth politics over alleged fraud, a history that some workers say should have disqualified her from the race altogether. The fact that she eventually emerged winner by a razor-thin margin has fuelled claims that the election outcome did not reflect the true will of workers.
Several labour representatives expressed anger and disappointment, insisting that Abwoli had overwhelming backing and describing the result as a betrayal of workers’ democratic choice.
They argue that sidelining an experienced incumbent in favour of an independent-aligned candidate has fractured trust between workers and the political establishment.
Abwoli, popularly referred to by her supporters as “the people’s MP,” is widely credited for her advocacy on labour rights, social protection, and workers’ welfare over the last decade. Her loyal base says her track record and consistency earned her legitimacy that should not have been undermined by political manoeuvring.
In response to the fallout, workers’ leaders are now calling on President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to intervene and facilitate reconciliation between Abwoli and Nakku, warning that prolonged division could undermine representation and productivity in the workers’ sector.
There are also growing calls for Abwoli to be considered for a senior appointment, with workers arguing that her experience, institutional memory, and loyalty deserve recognition beyond the disputed election outcome.
As tensions simmer, labour leaders stress that restoring unity and trust is critical to ensuring that workers’ voices are not overshadowed by internal party politics and alleged state interference.
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