Dokolo, Uganda | Adwoki Technical Institute Principal, Tukei Smith, has officially withdrawn from the race for the national Workers’ MP seat, pointing to overwhelming financial constraints and systemic barriers that he says unfairly disadvantage grassroots candidates.
In a statement issued Thursday, Tukei said his decision followed intense consultation and a realistic assessment of the demands involved.
He explained that his intention to join Parliament was driven by a genuine passion to advocate for workers’ rights, improved conditions, fair pay, and stronger labor protections.
However, the cost of the campaign has proven to be beyond reach for an ordinary Ugandan.
He detailed several financial hurdles, including a UGX 3 million nomination fee, the expenses of consulting workers across all 15 sub-regions of the country, transport, and logistical support for meetings and union mobilization.
He emphasized that these challenges made the campaign unsustainable.
Tukei also raised concerns over the integrity of the process, saying the system is prone to manipulation, with potential for new entrants to be sidelined through arbitrary removal from union registers an issue that compromises fairness and transparency.
Adding to his frustration, Tukei revealed that some senior politicians from Dokolo misled him with false promises of support.
He claimed their encouragement was not genuine and accused them of lacking commitment to his success, highlighting that the political field is structured to favor financially powerful candidates with entrenched networks.
Despite his withdrawal, Tukei reaffirmed his dedication to the cause of Ugandan workers.
He pledged to continue advocating for their rights and welfare through alternative platforms, including community-based initiatives and public engagement.
Tukei’s decision to step down narrows the race and raises questions about inclusivity and equity in Uganda’s electoral landscape.
Dokolo Post will continue to provide updates on the Workers’ MP race and related political developments across the country.
