By KT Reporter
The National Unity Platform (NUP) aspirant for the Bukedea Woman Member of Parliament seat, Mercy Alupo, has affirmed her intention to contest the position despite assertions from incumbent Speaker of Parliament, Annet Anita Among, that she will run unopposed.
Speaking to URN following her successful vetting process at NUP offices in Kampala, Alupo emphasized that while she may be unopposed within her party, she intends to secure her place on the ballot when nominations open.
“I am unopposed in my party, NUP, and Anita is also unopposed in her NRM party,” Alupo stated emphatically. “But the narrative that she is coming unopposed at the general election will not be tolerated. History will not repeat itself as it did in 2021.”
Alupo’s remarks underscore growing political tension in Bukedea as she seeks to challenge perceptions that NUP is confined to the Buganda region. She voiced frustration over bureaucratic obstacles faced by NUP aspirants in the district, citing the case of Bosco Okwaja, who was reportedly barred from nomination for the Kogunga Town Council mayoral seat unless he switched party allegiance.
“We have struggled to obtain the necessary stamp from the NUP head office while facing unwarranted hurdles from district registrars,” Alupo explained.
She insisted she meets all eligibility criteria for candidacy, highlighting that she has no criminal record, is above 18 years of age, and holds the required academic qualifications.
“There is no justification for denying me the opportunity to contest for the Bukedea Woman Member of Parliament seat,” she declared, calling on the Electoral Commission to operate independently and free from external influence.
Alupo also outlined her vision for Bukedea, prioritizing security in a district increasingly affected by armed criminal activity and rampant cattle theft. “We’ve lost lives to armed criminals, yet we have no answers from security agencies,” she lamented, urging greater accountability and action from law enforcement.
Meanwhile, the incumbent Speaker Among has publicly dismissed the viability of challengers. “Who is it that thinks she can change Bukedea? What will you bring that is new? Is it rain that I’ve been telling people about?” she remarked during a recent engagement with her constituents.
As the election approaches, the rivalry between Alupo and Among is expected to intensify, with Alupo challenging the status quo and Among defending her position as the incumbent.
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