RDC Taban warns against voter bribery as Adjumani aspirants raise security concerns

The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Adjumani, Taban Data Peter, has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups allegedly planning to influence the ongoing NRM primary elections through bribery and clandestine campaigning.

While addressing the media at the district headquarters on Tuesday, RDC Taban expressed concern over increasing reports that certain aspiring candidates were distributing money to voters at night with the intent of manipulating the election outcome.

He emphasized that such actions undermine democratic values and could lead to unnecessary conflict within the community.

“It has come to the security notice that there are many people who are planning to do wrong things to disrupt. However, I want to assure you that the district security committee is prepared to ensure that these elections proceed peacefully.

“I also want to encourage everybody to be vigilant, so that nobody should be intimidated,” RDC warned.

This warning follows concerns raised by several NRM candidates who accused some security personnel of being compromised.

They claimed that certain individuals were being escorted at night by security officers to carry out illegal campaign activities, including distributing money and holding secret meetings with selected voters.

Adjumani LC5 chairman Ben Anyama raised concerns about the involvement of the police and the UPDF in escorting civilians to distribute money during this primary election period.

“I also want to raise this matter to the DPC to the army Commander, to look into whether the UPDF is misused because, in a situation, somebody is killed in the process.

“So, the RDC, I really request you to take note of this very seriously and call upon the security committee to see this matter. If they are distributing money, I have no problem. It is their money, but they should not be escorted by the police and army. This is my concern,” Anyama, contesting for the flag to retain his position in the 2026 election said.

In response, RDC Taban called on residents of Adjumani to remain vigilant and report any suspicious political activity. He urged the electorate to reject monetary influence and instead vote based on merit, vision, and leadership quality.

“I call upon people to show solidarity and choose the right people for the right position. We have information about some people who are moving and distributing money at night. This is very unfortunate. But when money comes, money is good.

“You can receive, but you choose the right person. Choose the right person. Don’t choose because of money, because you will end up choosing the wrong person, who will, in turn, not take you into better leadership. So, I call upon our people to be calm,” he added.

He also warned all security personnel to remain professional and impartial throughout the election period. “No security officer should be seen escorting politicians for campaign activities. Anyone found involved in such misconduct will face disciplinary action,” the RDC said.

The primary elections in Adjumani have gained significant momentum, with many local positions hotly contested.

As the campaign period enters its final stages, stakeholders hope for a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process that reflects the will of the people.