The Soroti NRM district registrar, James Egaru, was compelled to re-verify the list of delegates following confusion that reportedly erupted after Moses Eriau’s camp raised concerns over an alleged increase in the number of delegates.
The alleged delegates had accompanied their favorite candidate Hebert Edmund Ariko, who is also vying for the NRM district chairperson seat.
Tensions eventually calmed as the verification process got underway. Voting is now set to proceed.
Security has been heightened at Soroti Core Primary Teachers College (PTC) in Asuret as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) conducts its highly anticipated district structure elections today.
Hundreds of party faithful have gathered at the institution to take part in choosing the next NRM District Chairperson and other local party leaders, in an event that has drawn widespread attention across the Teso sub-region.
Personnel from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and the Uganda Police Force have been strategically deployed around the school premises, with checkpoints and access controls enforced to maintain order during the voting process.
The security deployment comes amidst growing interest and tension surrounding the election, which pits three prominent candidates against each other: Hon. Herbert Edmund Ariko Okworo from Awaliwal Sub-county, Justine Owoja Edeku, also from Awaliwal, and Moses E. Eriau from Katine Sub-county.
Dozens of supporters were turned away at the school gates by security officers, who said only accredited voters and officials were allowed inside.
The move sparked discontent among some party members who had hoped to witness the proceedings.
While appearing at Kyoga Veritas radio on Thursday evening, Soroti District Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Ronald Bakak defended today’s security deployment, saying it was a precautionary measure to guarantee a smooth and peaceful election.
“This is a very important political exercise for the NRM, and we cannot take any chances,” Bakak explained.
“Our goal is to ensure that the process is not disrupted by rowdy elements or external influences. The presence of the UPDF and police should not be a cause for alarm, it is a standard measure in such sensitive political activities.”
Bakak added that the security forces had been briefed to maintain professionalism and impartiality throughout the exercise.
James Egaru, the NRM District Registrar for Soroti, said the elections will be conducted through the lining-up method, which the party has adopted to promote transparency and simplicity in tallying votes.
“Verification of voters started at 9:00 AM, and the exercise is scheduled to conclude at 2:00 PM,” Egaru said.
“We have put in place adequate mechanisms to ensure that only registered and eligible NRM voters participate. We urge all candidates and their supporters to accept the final outcome in the spirit of unity.”
According to party guidelines, voters physically stand behind their preferred candidate during the election, allowing for quick headcounts and immediate declaration of winners.
The race for Soroti NRM District Chairperson has attracted attention not only because of the candidates involved but also due to recent controversies and shifting allegiances within the party.
The withdrawal of veteran politician and Special Presidential Advisor Charles Elasu from the race earlier this week, amid rumors of bribery, which he vehemently denied, has only heightened public interest.
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