The political atmosphere in Ngariam County is growing more heated as politicians intensify efforts to dominate local polls, among those feeling the mounting pressure is the State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, whose once firm grip on Katakwi town is now facing a significant challenge.
Recent developments paint a picture of a politician grappling with declining support, accused of manipulative tactics and confrontational behavior.
The latest controversy involves a heated altercation between Ogwang and Mr. Oluka Fidel, the Town Clerk of Katakwi Town Council, over the conduct of local NRM grassroots elections.
According to reliable sources, tensions flared during the LC1 structural elections in Angopet Cell on May 6, 2025, Chaos erupted when Ogwang’s agents allegedly ferried in unregistered voters to tip the election in his favor.
This move was met with stiff resistance from rival camps who insisted that only registered NRM members could participate.
As the standoff escalated into violence, Mr. Oluka, observing from a distance, promptly contacted the District Police Commander (DPC) to restore order, the police responded swiftly, dispersing the violent crowds and postponing the election to the following day, May 7, this decision infuriated Minister Ogwang, who accused Oluka of deliberately sabotaging his political efforts.
The rescheduled election proceeded under tight security. However, it was a turning point that delivered a blow to Ogwang’s camp. Mr. Ogeele Gabriel, popularly known as “Abuderi” and an agent of Vice President Jessica Rose Alupo, clinched a decisive victory, defeating Ogwang’s representative by a wide margin, this outcome was seen as a reflection of Ogwang’s waning influence in a region he once dominated.
Eyewitnesses noted that Ogwang’s agents suffered a humiliating defeat, losing to rivals Augustine Otuko and Dan Mulalu by over 80%, the loss sparked accusations from Ogwang, who alleged that certain district officials, notably Mr. Oluka, had mobilized against him.
In a recorded phone call accessed by this publication, Ogwang issued direct threats to Oluka, vowing to ensure his dismissal from office.
“I am not happy with you Mr. Oluka, you have been masterminding my failure and this I will not take lightly, I will deal with you as Ogwang, and I hope you know what you are entering into,” he said furiously.
Ogwang further claimed that Oluka had engaged in voter bribery and promised to report him to the Electoral Commission.
Oluka, however, refuted the allegations, asserting that his actions were solely aimed at preventing violence.
“First of all, this is wrong information. Where would I get money to bribe voters? I am a civil servant, not a politician, I only called the police to intervene for the safety of the community. You cannot celebrate political victories at the expense of people’s lives,” he firmly responded.
Despite Ogwang’s attempts to sway public opinion through financial gestures, frequently donating to churches and community projects, his popularity appears to be dwindling.
Political analysts suggest that the electorate is becoming increasingly resistant to his tactics, favoring candidates who promote peaceful and fair democratic processes.
With formidable opponents like Augustine Otuko and Dan Mulalu gaining ground, Ogwang faces an uphill battle to maintain his relevance in Katakwi politics, his confrontational style, coupled with the recent election debacle, has cast doubts over his leadership, even among former loyalists.
As the race tightens, it remains to be seen whether Ogwang can recover from these setbacks or if Katakwi will witness a significant political shift in the coming months, What is certain, however, is that the district’s political dynamics are rapidly evolving, and the electorate is watching closely.