OBUTUWELO, Uganda – In a decisive electoral upset that underscored deep fissures within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, Bob Oyuku Ojok has been declared the winner of the LC2 Chairperson election for Obutuwelo Ward. The independent candidate secured a sweeping victory, polling 12 votes against his closest rivals, Aaron Ngoda of the NRM and Hudson Okori, who each managed to secure only 3 votes.
The Returning Officer declared Mr. Oyuku the winner yesterday,marking his second consecutive term as the ward’s leader. However, his victory speech was notable not for celebration, but for a pointed critique of the party he has long supported.
Addressing a small crowd of supporters after the results were announced, Mr. Oyuku revealed that his decision to run as an independent was born out of frustration with the NRM’s internal processes. He stated that the party's failure to conduct primary elections for the flag bearer left him with no choice but to seek a mandate directly from the people of Obutuwelo.
"I contested on an independent ticket because the NRM party refused to conduct primary elections for the flag bearer," Mr. Oyuku explained. "That is the only reason I, a staunch supporter of the NRM, went independent. The people have spoken, and they have chosen development over party disorganization."
With his re-election secured, Mr. Oyuku laid out an ambitious roadmap for his final term. He emphasized a consultative approach to governance, promising to convene a general meeting with the residents of Obutuwelo to draft a cohesive five-year development plan.
"I will call for a meeting with the people of Obutuwelo so that we can come up with a five-year development plan together," he said. "I will ensure that this plan is strictly followed for the benefit of everyone in this ward."
Beyond infrastructure and planning, Mr. Oyuku highlighted two specific pillars of his new administration: security and economic empowerment. He pledged to intensify efforts to bolster local security measures to ensure peace and stability, while simultaneously initiating programs aimed at stimulating economic development and improving the livelihoods of the local population.
The election results represent a significant political statement in Obutuwelo, with the combined votes for the independent candidate (12) dwarfing the support for the official NRM candidate (3). Mr. Oyuku is expected to officially assume his new term in the coming days.
