Former Obongi District LC5 chairperson candidate Akuma Francis Agandru has withdrawn his petition challenging the election of incumbent district chairperson Abibu Buga Khemis Awadi. Akuma, who contested the January 22, 2026, election as an independent candidate, had challenged Buga’s victory, citing alleged irregularities in the counting of votes at different polling stations and the tallying process.
He had also questioned the legality of Buga’s nomination for the election. Buga, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, was declared the winner with 5,984 votes against Akuma’s 5,467. The petition had been scheduled for hearing at the Arua High Court before Justice Celia Nagawa, who is handling several election petitions arising from the January parliamentary and local government elections in the West Nile region.
However, Akuma notified the court of his decision to withdraw the case, saying the move was intended to promote peace, unity and reconciliation with Buga. Akuma told Uganda Radio Network that he was also dissatisfied with the conduct of the proceedings, particularly changes to the dates set for hearing the petition.
Justice Nagawa allowed the withdrawal without costs, directing each party to meet its own expenses incurred in preparing for the case. The judge said the withdrawal was consistent with Akuma’s stated interest in promoting peace, unity and reconciliation.
Buga was not readily available for comment by the time of filing this report, as repeated calls to his phone went unanswered. The incumbent had previously expressed confidence in his defence, saying he had prepared evidence to support his victory.
Buga retained the Obongi LC5 seat after polling 5,984 votes in the January election. Akuma followed with 5,467 votes. Other candidates were independent candidates Rashid Khalili Azabo Kenyingopi and Karala Siraji, while Taibo Muzamil contested on the Forum for Democratic Change ticket-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
