Polling in Hoima By Elections Calm, amidst tight security

By Atukwasibwe Phiona

Hoima, Uganda:

Voting is underway amidst tight security in Hoima to replace the Woman Member of Parliament. The race is between two giants, NRM’s Harriet Mugenyo Akiiki and Forum for Democratic Change (FDCs) Asinansi Nyakato. Similarly, elections are also underway in Kaabong, a recently created district

The seat fell vacant after Hon. Tophace Kaahwa Byagira, the former Woman MP switched to the newly created Kikuube district that was carved out of Hoima.

 

NRMs Mugenyi (l) and FDCs Nyakato

Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Byabakam described the polls as calm and peaceful, albeit a few mishaps regarding the eight suspected bribers who were arrested as they distributed salt, sugar, cash and soap in Kabale sub county.

The Albertine Region police spokesman, Julius Hakiza, confirmed the arrest of the eight.

The suspects are according to police part of the People Power Movement that has been camped in Hoima to garner support for Nyakato.

Meanwhile, FDC has filed a complaint to the Electoral Commission, decrying the  heavy deployment of military personnel in Hoima District. FDC Secretary General, Nathan Nandala Mafabi penned the letter to the Electoral Commission.

In the letter, FDC wants the commission to investigate the heavy deployment and involvement of military operatives in the polls.
Nandala noted that the presence of the military is intended to intimidate and scare their supporters.