Butebo, Uganda: The National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer Samuel Keddi, has been declared winner of the Butebo District LC5 Chairperson elections, reclaiming the seat he first held when the district was carved out of Pallisa in 2017.
Keddi was announced winner on Wednesday morning by Butebo District Returning Officer Beatrice Apolot after polling 18,866 votes, defeating incumbent James Okurut, who contested as an independent candidate and secured 15,672 votes. Independent candidate Isaac Kibuge garnered 153 votes, while FDC’s Yasin Lobba received 70 votes.
The election had initially been cancelled on January 22, 2026, following reported irregularities, with Electoral Commission Chairperson Simon Byabakama ordering a fresh poll.
Apolot described the repeat election as largely peaceful and transparent.
“This was the most transparent, free and fair election despite minor incidents that could not degrade the exercise. I appreciate the cooperation from all stakeholders, especially security and the technical teams,” she said.
She commended the role of biometric voter verification kits, noting that only five devices required replacement during the exercise.
Electoral Commission Commissioner Stephen Tasobya, who supervised the poll, applauded voters for maintaining peace and urged losing candidates to accept the results in good faith.
North Bukedi Regional Police Commander Bosco Otim confirmed that four individuals were arrested in Kanginima Sub-county for allegedly attempting to disrupt the process and were detained at Butebo Central Police Station for investigation.
Political Camps Deepen Divisions
The election exposed deep political divisions within Butebo District, with local leaders describing the district as split into rival camps.
Petete Town Council resident Sarah Takali observed that internal political rivalries had intensified in recent months, noting that the district’s political landscape is largely dominated by NRM-leaning factions despite the presence of opposition candidates.
Ahmed Kirya of Kakoro appealed to Okurut to accept the outcome gracefully and suggested that experienced leaders should continue serving in alternative capacities.
Okurut, who served as LC5 Chairperson from 2021 until the recent election, was unavailable for comment by press time.
Keddi Pledges Inclusive Leadership
In his victory speech, Keddi thanked the electorate for renewing their trust in him and pledged to serve all residents regardless of political affiliation.
“Nobody was my enemy. Whoever contested was exercising their democratic right. The voters had four options to choose from. Just as fingers are not equal but work together, we must now unite and work for Butebo,” he said.
Keddi previously served as Butebo’s first LC5 Chairperson in 2017 before losing the seat to Okurut in 2021.
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