By Emmanuel Eumu
Dokolo; Today, over 95,000 registered voters in Dokolo District made their voices heard as they headed to the polls to elect a new woman MP. The electoral process, lauded for its political maturity, witnessed a peaceful campaign season, devoid of any skirmishes, according to Justice Simon Byabkama, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission.
Addressing the media, Justice Byabkama commended the people of Dokolo for their peaceful conduct throughout the campaign period. Notably, candidates refrained from meeting at campaign venues, a decision that fostered a peaceful electoral atmosphere.
However, amidst the tranquility, a surprise announcement shook the electoral landscape. The Electoral Commission received a late notice from independent candidate Lalam Grace Hanna, indicating her withdrawal from the race in favor of the NRM candidate. Unfortunately, this announcement came after the printing of the ballots, prompting the Commission to issue notices at polling stations, urging voters not to cast their votes for Lalam Grace Hanna.
As polling stations opened across Dokolo District, turnout varied. At Tetugo PAG Church of Uganda polling station in Agwata Town council, 174 out of 436 registered voters had cast their ballots by midday, reported the presiding officer, Obel Tonny. In Atabu Bata sub-county, transportation challenges hindered voter turnout, with only 90 out of 765 registered voters casting their votes by 3 pm, as some were transported on board boards to polling stations.
In Kangai sub-county, at Okwongodul P/S polling station, out of 616 registered voters, only 188 had cast their ballots by mid-afternoon. The low turnout was attributed to the daily market of “swagere” in Kangai sub-county, diverting the attention of some voters.
As the day progresses, all eyes remain on Dokolo District, awaiting the outcome of this pivotal election, which promises to shape the political landscape of the region for years to come.
By press time the tallying of votes was still going on. As your number one source for accurate news we will keep you upto speed on this story