By Our Reporter
KALAKI
Mark Auss, a resident of Ogonyo Village in Kadie Parish, Otuboi Sub County, Kalaki District, has raised concerns about the nomination of Moses Oriada as the candidate for the upcoming District Chairperson elections scheduled for 2026/2031.
Auss, who is a registered voter, is calling on the electoral commission to confirm the legitimacy of the academic qualifications that Oriada, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, presented for his nomination.
In a letter dated September 14, 2025, addressed to the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission’s Complaint Desk in Kampala, Auss asserts that Oriada lacks the necessary qualifications, specifically the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education or an equivalent certification, which is mandated for the role of Chairperson of the Local Council V. Despite this, the Kalaki District Returning Officer nominated Oriada on September 4, 2025.
“It has come to my attention that Oriada Moses is known not to possess the required qualification of Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education or its equivalent, which is necessary for the office of the Chairperson Local Council Five. Nonetheless, he was duly nominated by the Kalaki District Returning Officer on September 4, 2025,” the letter states.
As a concerned citizen and registered voter at Otole Catholic (A-A) polling station, Auss has decided to submit this inquiry and hopes the commission will address his concerns, determining whether Oriada is eligible or ineligible for the candidacy.
“I would appreciate your prompt and positive response to this matter,” Auss concluded in his letter, which was also copied to the regional elections officer among others.
In response, Oriada has dismissed the allegations as rumors regarding his academic records, stating that he is focused on winning the election.
“When people see you as a threat, they tend to spread stories,” he remarked, adding that he has faced physical confrontations in the past following his nominations.
He urged his supporters to stay calm as he moves forward, having completed his nomination and now preparing for the campaign to secure victory in the upcoming elections.
Leontine Nsungwa, the EC returning officer for Kalaki, stated over the phone this week that Oriada submitted academic documents in accordance with their guidelines.
She also mentioned that a copy of the complaint has been forwarded to headquarters, where they are currently addressing the issue.
During the recent NRM Party Primary elections, Oriada, who currently serves as the LC3 Chairperson for Otuboi Sub County, achieved a resounding victory with 21,506 votes, significantly outpacing his closest rival, Major (Retired) Patrick Eyangu, who garnered around 6,908 votes.
Other candidates included Pascal Engwau for LCV Vice Chairperson and Immaculate Ilado, the district speaker.
Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, the EC Chairperson said the EC is tackling a backlog of nearly 100 petitions from recent local polls.
About 30 hearings are done, with the rest ongoing. “We hear everyone petitioners, respondents, even returning officers,” Byabakama said. If evidence shows wrongful exclusions, the law lets the EC reinstate candidates, ensuring equity at every level.
Byabakama reiterated the body’s pledge to openness. “Transparency is our cornerstone. We’ll deliver a credible 2026 poll for all Ugandans.” With fees due post certification and campaigns kicking off in October, the race is heating up. Only verified contenders will hit the trail, but the field promises fierce debate on jobs, rights, and reform.
