By Henry Okello
TORORO
The National Resistance Movement (NRM) party elections in Tororo District descended into chaos on Friday, marked by violence and a dramatic confrontation involving district party registrar Joseph Kadokech. The tumultuous event, held at Rock View School grounds, left many shaken but concluded with the successful election of key party officials.
The tension peaked when Dr. Emmanuel Otaala, the incumbent Member of Parliament for West Budama South, attempted to strangle Kadokech after suffering a significant defeat in his bid for the General Secretary position.
Otaala garnered just 154 votes against Richard Owere Machika’s commanding 802 votes. In a moment of frustration, he confronted Kadokech, accusing him of election rigging. Quick-thinking voters and police officers intervened, pulling Otaala away before the situation escalated further.
The scene was volatile, with an angry crowd turning on Otaala, expressing their discontent over his aggressive behavior.
The disturbances prompted a substantial deployment of security forces, including police and UPDF personnel, to manage the situation and ensure the election could proceed without further interruption.
Several individuals attempted to intrude into the voting grounds, claiming their names were absent from the official voter register. Security personnel acted swiftly to restrain these non-voters, successfully restoring order for the election to continue.
Despite the upheaval, the elections resulted in significant outcomes for the NRM. Yeri Apollo Ofwono was re-elected as the party chairperson for Tororo District, while Minister of Defense and Veterans Affairs Jacob Oboth Oboth secured the role of Secretary for Finance.
Former Ugandan Ambassador to Kenya, Phibby Otaala Awere, was elected District Vice Chairperson, and retired government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo took on the role of Publicity Secretary for the Older Persons League.
After his re-election, Ofwono expressed gratitude to the voters, emphasizing the importance of unity and commitment. “I thank the people for believing in me once again. I pledge to work tirelessly to mobilize support as we prepare for the 2026 general elections”.
