Rising concerns: NRM members demand return to secret ballot amid election irregularities

Discontent is brewing within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) following low voter turnout on Thursday’s party primary elections across Lamwo district and other parts of Uganda.

Party members, election officials, and youth leaders have attributed the poor participation to the continued use of the lining-up voting method, which they say compromises voter privacy and discourages genuine democratic expression.

The method, introduced in 2015 to increase transparency and reduce electoral fraud, requires voters to physically line up behind their preferred candidate or their poster making their choices publicly visible.

However, critics argue that it invites intimidation, social pressure, and fear of retaliation, particularly in closely-knit rural communities.

“This method of voting does not guarantee the secrecy of a voter’s choice,” said one party official in Lamwo. “People are afraid to openly support a candidate who may not be favored by powerful local leaders.”

In polling stations like Lapalangwen, turnout was reported to be far below the anticipated numbers. Observers noted delays, logistical failures, and miscommunication factors that compounded voter apathy.

A concerned youth leader from Lamwo, Akello Fiona said: “This is not just about numbers. It’s about trust. The people want to vote freely and privately. If the party is to remain democratic and strong, it must return to the secret ballot.”

As calls for electoral reform grow louder, senior party officials are expected to review the complaints in their post-primary report. Whether this will prompt a shift back to secret balloting remains uncertain.

Julius Okello, a boda boda rider from Padibe said that “we want to participate, but we are scared of being labeled or punished for our choices.” “You can’t disagree with local leaders without consequences, and that’s why many people stayed home.”

Acan Scovia, a market vendor in Madi Opei, shared, “In my area, many women did not come out to vote. They said lining up is embarrassing and can cause problems at home or in the community. Secret voting was better. At least then, you voted with your heart.”

Ojok David, a retired teacher from Pangira, noted, “The party is losing touch with the grassroots. These primaries no longer reflect the people’s voice, and unless something changes, we will see even worse turnout in future elections.”

Doris Abalo, the female youth councilor 5 to Lamwo district council, said the limited campaign period during the NRM primaries negatively affected voter engagement, especially in areas where some candidates were unable to reach the electorate.

“The timeframe for campaigning was too short. Some candidates didn’t get the chance to reach all parts of the district,” she said.

She also expressed concern over voter bribery, noting that the use of money to influence voters discouraged genuine participation in the primaries.

“Buying voters with money not only undermines democracy but also discourages many people from taking part in the process,” Abalo added.

Meanwhile, security forces in Lamwo district confirmed the arrest of two individuals in Nyimur sub-county for attempting to disrupt the electoral process. According to preliminary investigations, the suspects were caught trying to manipulate the outcome at a local polling station.

Lamwo RDC, William Komakech confirmed the arrests and emphasized zero tolerance for electoral malpractice. “Anyone caught violating electoral laws will be arrested and prosecuted. The government is committed to free and fair primaries, and we will not tolerate intimidation or vote tampering.”

Aswa East Regional Police spokesperson IP Oloya Joe, said the suspects are being held at Lamwo Central Police Station as investigations continue.

If democracy is to thrive, the NRM and the broader political system must not only reform their voting methods, but confront this deeper, generational wound, one where power wears the mask of humility, and truth is met with suspicion.

Meanwhile, in Oyam district, cases of vote manipulation, bribery, and double voting were reported at polling stations and the tally centre.

On Sunday, a report of the arrest of Oyam district NRM chairperson Bosco Onyik Ogwal and district registrar Adong Jackoline was circulated.

While tndNews understands that the pair was arrested for electoral malpractice allegations, North Kyoga Regional Police PRO SP Jimmy Patrick Okema said Sunday evening he was not informed.

A team from the CID Headquarters in Kampala arrested Onyik and Adong in Lira City on Sunday, according to a reliable source.

“They slept at Lira City CPS before being taken to Oyam town on Monday morning for additional evidence collection by detectives.”

This publication has been informed that a prominent military officer approved the arrest in coordination with other top State officials who were tasked with monitoring the election process.