Tensions continue to rise in Lamwo district after former NRM LC5 aspirant Amone Jimmy announced he is preparing a formal petition to the NRM Secretariat in Kampala over what he termed as “fraudulent and irregular” party primaries.
Amone, who lost to Oyet Sisto Ocen in the hotly contested race, claims the primaries were marred by widespread voter bribery, manipulation of the voters’ register, and inconsistencies in vote tallies at multiple polling stations. Oyet got 15900 votes and Amone got 15053 votes
“We are finalizing our petition to the NRM Secretariat,” Amone told journalists on Friday afternoon at a press briefing in Lamwo Town Council. “If this matter is not addressed urgently and transparently, we will be left with no choice but to part ways with the party and pursue another political path.”
Amone further alleged that his campaign team has gathered affidavits, witness accounts, and statements from polling agents who reportedly observed irregularities during the voting and tallying process.
“The people of Lamwo deserve a fair election. We believe in the NRM, but if the Secretariat turns a blind eye to injustice, we will have to make difficult decisions,” he added.
The NRM Secretariat has yet to respond officially to Amone’s planned petition.
The political standoff has triggered a variety of reactions across Lamwo district.
Aloyo Lucy, a resident of Padibe town council, said, “We woke up early to vote because we believed in change. If there was cheating, then it means our voice as ordinary people was stolen. The party should listen to the complaints.”
Okoya Mathew Akiya, a councillor 5 for Palabek Ogili sub-county and vocal supporter of Amone, echoed similar concerns.
“We saw money exchanging hands on voting day. People were bribed openly. If the NRM wants to keep its supporters, they should clean up their house before 2026.”
However, Komakech Walter, a youth affiliated with the NRM, urged calm and encouraged aggrieved candidates to follow internal party mechanisms.
“Every party has rules. If someone is not satisfied, they should use the right channels. Declaring breakaway decisions too early may divide the party,” he noted.
Amone considers independent bid in 2026
In a separate development, Amone has declared his intention to contest in the 2026 general elections, either as an independent if no redress is offered within NRM structures.
The will of the people was subverted. I cannot accept results from a process filled with dishonesty. I’m consulting my supporters, but I will be on the ballot in 2026,” Amone asserted.
His defiance has stirred political debate in Lamwo, with analysts predicting a major shakeup in the district’s political landscape. Amone is especially popular among the youth and informal sector, including boda boda riders and market vendors.
Meanwhile, Lamwo district NRM chairperson, Odoch Polycarp, called for unity and patience.
“As a party, we encourage aggrieved members to use proper structures. There’s room for internal resolution, but we also respect everyone’s democratic choices,” Odoch said.
Amone Jimmy, known for his grassroots mobilization and previous leadership roles in Lamwo, is expected to make a formal declaration of his political future in the coming months.
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