Political Tensions Rise in Lira City Amid Accusations of Violence and Campaign Violations

LIRA, UGANDA — Political tensions in Lira City have escalated sharply after Health Minister and Lira City Woman MP aspirant, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, publicly accused her opponent, Hon. Betty Amongi Akena, of sponsoring violence against supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

At a press briefing held at Lira Hotel on Monday, Dr. Aceng condemned what she described as a series of violent attacks targeting her campaign and NRM loyalists. She alleged that a rally she held at Lira Police Primary School was disrupted by assailants mobilized by her opponent, resulting in injuries and theft of personal belongings.

Dr. Aceng further claimed that violent attacks continued into the night in Angwetangwet, where eight NRM supporters were reportedly injured with pangas and other weapons. The victims are currently hospitalized.

In response to the insecurity, Dr. Aceng advised her supporters to stop wearing yellow attire—the NRM’s signature color—until after the anticipated victory celebrations on January 16. She accused Hon. Amongi’s camp of dressing hired assailants in yellow to falsely implicate NRM supporters in the violence.

Beyond the allegations of violence, Dr. Aceng also accused Amongi of violating electoral laws by distributing prohibited items such as sugar, soap, and fabrics to voters. Despite this, she advised residents to “accept the items if offered but exercise wisdom while casting their votes.”

Jimmy Awany Cing Malu, an independent candidate for Lira City West MP who supports Aceng, condemned the violence as “cowardly and unacceptable.” He warned individuals allegedly coordinating the attacks to cease such activities.

Campaign manager Zena Apio Opolot clarified that Dr. Aceng’s public rallies have officially ended and urged residents to remain at home, avoid provocative attire, and await the election outcome peacefully.

The press briefing concluded with calls for calm and peaceful participation as Lira City prepares for polling day. No immediate response from Hon. Amongi’s camp was available at the time of reporting.