Lira, Uganda | Political tension in Lira City has intensified after the Minister of Health and Lira City Woman Member of Parliament aspirant, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, accused her opponent, Hon. Betty Amongi Akena, of orchestrating violence against residents and supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Speaking during a press briefing held today at Lira Hotel, Dr Aceng expressed deep concern over what she described as escalating acts of political violence that are threatening peace, public health, and the integrity of the ongoing electoral process.
Dr Aceng alleged that her campaign rally held yesterday at Lira Police Primary School was attacked by goons she claimed were sent by her opponent to disrupt the event.
She said several people sustained physical injuries, while others lost personal property including wallets, mobile phones, and other valuables.
According to Aceng, some of the suspects confessed that they had been mobilized by Otak Alele on behalf of Hon. Amongi.
She further alleged that the violence did not stop there, adding that later in the night, armed attackers struck Angwetangwet, where eight NRM supporters were reportedly injured using pangas and other dangerous weapons.
The victims are currently receiving treatment in hospital.
Dr Aceng also raised concern over the case of Afria Bakari, who she said was ignored after reporting the incident to authorities.
In response to the insecurity, Dr Aceng advised her supporters to temporarily stop wearing yellow attire, including T-shirts, caps, dresses, and aprons, until the anticipated victory celebrations on the 16th.
She claimed that her opponent was disguising hired goons in yellow to falsely portray NRM supporters as the source of the violence.
Dr Aceng also accused Hon. Amongi of violating campaign laws by allegedly distributing items such as sugar, soap, and fabrics to voters, which is prohibited under electoral regulations.
However, she urged residents to accept the items if offered but exercise wisdom while casting their votes.
She further advised residents of Lira City to return home early before dusk to ensure their personal safety, warning that citizens must remain vigilant amid the reported presence of roaming goons.
Condemning the violence, Jimmy Awany Cing Malu, a Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) member contesting as an independent candidate for Lira City West MP but supporting Aceng, described the acts as cowardly and unacceptable.
He said Aceng’s camp was committed to peaceful campaigning and accused the opposing side of using disguised goons to tarnish NRM’s image. He warned individuals, including one Minyang, against leading violent activities.
Meanwhile, Zena Apio Opolot clarified that Dr Aceng’s campaign activities had officially ended, cautioning the public against false reports alleging fresh rallies.
She urged residents to stay home, avoid yellow attire, and wait peacefully for victory celebrations on the 16th.
The press briefing concluded with renewed calls for calm and peaceful participation in the electoral process as Lira City approaches polling day.
