Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-02-08 07:03:04
The competition to fill the vacant seat of the departed Dokolo Woman MP Cecilia Ogwal is intensifying as Dr Esther Akullo Owor Otada Obot, a prominent Rotarian, has expressed her interest in the position. In the 2021 general elections, Ogwal secured the seat with 32,223 votes, followed by NRM’s Janet Rose Elau Adongo Okello with 16,880 votes, and UPC’s Sarah Aguti with 10,460 votes.
Dr Esther Akullo Owor is expected to face tough competition from Dr Rosemary Alwoc, Ogwal’s daughter, who is being supported by leaders within both the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Najjanankumbi faction. However, Akullo has decided to run for the seat as an independent candidate in order to run a campaign that is as inclusive as possible. She aims to unite the people of Dokolo and be their voice within the Lango sub-region and nationally, regardless of their political affiliations.
Despite the political landscape in the region, Akullo has garnered support from influential figures with varying political opinions. While NRM has made progress in Lango, many people in Dokolo lean towards UPC. Akullo is well-positioned to gain acceptance from the community as her father, David P Obot, was a devoted Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) supporter and a strong advocate for Ogwal before she switched to FDC after a falling out with the Obote family.
Beyond her political aspirations, Akullo is also active in the corporate world, being involved in several private initiatives. She is a leader in the Rotary movement and plays a role in coordinating the activities of Otada Group of Companies, which is engaged in media, telecom, and commercial farming.
Other potential candidates for the Dokolo Woman MP position include Dr Anna Grace Lalam, Beatrice Milly Abang, Lillian Auma Okullo, UPC’s Sarah Aguti Nyangkon, and NRM’s Janet Rose Adong Elau. It is also expected that the FDC will nominate a candidate for the position.
Before having the opportunity to serve as the Dokolo Woman MP, Akullo will have to overcome the challenge posed by UK-based Dr Alwoc Ogwal. The race for the seat promises to be competitive and pivotal for the future representation of the people of Dokolo.
Overall, the declaration of Dr Esther Akullo Owor as a candidate for the Dokolo Woman MP position is a significant development in the local political landscape. Her campaign under the independent ticket and support from various sectors of society make her a strong contender in the upcoming election.
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