Tensions erupted in Bar-Opok village, Ajok parish, Inomo sub-county, Kwania district on July 28, after LC1 candidate Denis Oloi accused the Deputy Resident District Commissioner Abraham Aturo of blatantly interfering in the electoral process.
Oloi said the deputy RDC turned what should have been a democratic exercise into chaos and confusion.
Oloi further alleged that the Deputy RDC abandoned his official oversight role and instead plunged into active campaigning, a move that directly violates the principles of free and fair elections.
According to him, the official’s actions triggered unrest, divided voters, and derailed the entire voting process.
“This was not supervision, it was interference,” Oloi said. “He came under the authority of the government, but instead of ensuring order, he openly campaigned, causing tension and misunderstanding among voters.”
Village witnesses described the situation as volatile, with heated exchanges and growing frustration among residents who accused authorities of attempting to manipulate the outcome.
The atmosphere reportedly deteriorated rapidly as confusion spread over the legitimacy of the exercise.
Candidate Oloi further criticised the government for deploying individuals who, in his view, lack neutrality and professionalism.
He warned that entrusting partisan actors with electoral responsibilities risks eroding public confidence in grassroots democracy.
“The government must stop sending people who misuse power during elections. We need neutral, competent officials, not individuals who turn elections into personal battlegrounds,” he said.
The allegations ignited outrage among sections of the community, with dozens calling for an immediate and independent investigation into the conduct of the Deputy RDC and the broader handling of the election.
The Deputy RDC had not responded to the accusations.
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