Tensions ran high in Olel-pek Village, Adok Subcounty, on Thursday as supporters of Joseph Jones Ogwal, NRM flagbearer for Dokolo North, gathered for a campaign rally amid accusations of voter bribery and political sabotage.
The event highlighted the growing stakes in the 2026 general elections and underscored divisions between NRM candidates and independent challengers.
Adok Subcounty NRM Chairperson, Okori David, accused rivals of abandoning open rallies and instead collecting voters’ names while offering handouts.
He said Ogwal’s growing popularity had prompted such tactics and urged residents to support the NRM, noting that Ogwal had earned respect across party lines, including from UPC, FDC, NUP, and non-affiliated voters.
NRM Youth League Chairperson Martin Okech Ogwal called on youth to mobilise votes for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Ogwal, James Otto Apili, and other NRM candidates.
He emphasised that incumbents must account for their records, while first-time aspirants should focus on essential community needs such as electricity, market access, and education.
NRM mobiliser Okio Sam warned that some local leaders were attending meetings organised by independent or opposition candidates for personal gain.
He urged residents to support NRM candidates to ensure coherent and coordinated development.
Adok Subcounty Coordinator for Ogwal, Alex Obote Oluka, highlighted challenges in Amonolocoo Parish, including poor roads, limited access to clean water, and declining education standards.
He apologised for disruptions during the NRM primaries and stressed that Ogwal’s campaign focused on issues rather than personal attacks.
LCIII Chairperson and NRM flagbearer Ogwali Rubby urged support for women’s structures and economic groups and expressed confidence in Ogwal’s success, citing historical trends for NRM flagbearers.
Ogwal, in his keynote address, pledged to work for all constituents, regardless of party affiliation.
He criticised vote-buying, accusing the incumbent MP of promising cash to voters while failing to deliver on electricity.
Ogwal unveiled his development agenda, which includes:
- Establishing a scholarship board for disadvantaged learners.
- Upgrading health centres and training doctors and nurses from the constituency.
- Promoting youth sports and cultural activities.
- Supporting women’s economic empowerment.
- Partnering with veterinary professionals for poultry immunisation.
- Advocating for increased PDM funds and longer repayment periods.
- Supporting legislation empowering cultural leaders to issue land permits.
- Establishing an adult learning centre.
- Partnering with NGOs on family conflicts and mental health.
- Training local leaders on planning and budgeting for community development.
Ogwal warned that defeated rivals now running as independents were attempting to split NRM support.
In a notable development, Ogwang Dickens, previously involved in a petition against Ogwal, publicly apologised to the community and NRM.
Later, in Olii-duru Village, NRM PWD Representative Olinga Richard alleged that an independent candidate had planned to offer Shs50,000 per voter, urging residents to reject leaders who had failed the community over the past five years.
The rally reinforced Ogwal’s issue-based campaign, centred on education, development, and inclusive governance, amid a tense political climate.
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