Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-03-21 17:16:57
Counting of votes is currently taking place in Dokolo district under heavy security measures. The by-election in Dokolo attracted six candidates, including Dr. Rosemary Alwoc Ogwal of the FDC, Sarah Aguti of UPC, Janet Rose Adongo Elau of NRM, Harriet Ageno of NUP, Dr. Esther Akullo Obot Otada, and Rebecca Arao as independents.
Amidst the voting process, there have been reports of voter bribery, vote stuffing, and violence, particularly from the FDC and UPC camps. The FDC accused the security team in Dokolo of arresting three of their supporters, including two personal assistants to the party president, Patrick Oboi Amuriat, over the alleged theft of money. Additionally, there were concerns raised about missing numbers in declaration of results forms at certain polling stations. However, Moses Attan Okia, a supervisor in the FDC camp, stated that the election overall has been relatively peaceful with minor incidents.
Despite claims of voter bribery and vote stuffing, candidate Sarah Aguti of UPC described the election as calm. UPC’s president, Jimmy James Akena, alleged that money had exchanged hands with each village receiving funds from the ruling NRM party through RDCs. However, when asked to provide a statement to the police, Akena declined. Sebastian Oswin Oguti, the RDC of Lamwo deployed in Amwoma sub-county, dismissed complaints from opposition parties as attempts to seek unwarranted attention.
Oguti denied allegations of pre-ticked ballots at polling stations, emphasizing that the voting process has been conducted fairly. Currently, ballot papers are being transported to the tally center at the District Council Hall for the final tabulation of results.
The election in Dokolo has been eventful, with accusations of irregularities and disturbances surfacing from various parties. Despite these challenges, the voting process is nearing its conclusion, and the authorities are ensuring a transparent and fair outcome. The heavy deployment of security forces is indicative of the importance and sensitivity of the by-election in Dokolo, ensuring that the voting process is conducted smoothly and without interference.
Overall, the by-election in Dokolo district has been a significant event with multiple candidates vying for the vacant seat. The tight security measures in place demonstrate the commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the results reflect the will of the people. As the counting of votes continues, the focus remains on maintaining peace and order to preserve the integrity of the electoral process.
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