OYAM DISTRICT – The Vice Chairperson of Oyam District, Mr. Chris Ongom, has issued a stern warning to voters against surrendering their National Identification Cards (National IDs) to anyone, alleging a sinister plot disguised as election assistance.
Ongom sounded the alarm while campaigning for the incumbent Woman Member of Parliament for Oyam District, Hon. Santa Alum Ogwang, at Iyanyi Primary School in Acanpii Parish, Loro Sub-County, on Thursday.
Addressing a gathering of supporters, Ongom revealed that he had received credible information about individuals moving through the district under the pretence of aiding the electoral process.
"I have received information that some people are collecting national identification cards from the people of Oyam with the pretense of helping with election-related matters, yet they have a hidden motive," Ongom declared.
He linked the warning to the ongoing government programs, heightening residents' fears. "Now that people will be using the National ID for critical programs like cattle restocking, I fear that those who collected these cards might sell them to other people or use them fraudulently for cattle compensation claims," he explained.
The Vice Chairperson emphasised the grave personal risk involved, noting that the National ID contains an individual's most sensitive biometric and personal data.
"The national identification card contains all the information for a person. If those who collected it use it for criminal activities, then the owners of the cards will be held responsible and find themselves in serious trouble with the law," Ongom cautioned, urging constituents to safeguard their documents.
Ongom also turned his attention to the political dynamics, issuing a strong warning to a clan head in Oyam South, whom he accused of overstepping his traditional role.
"He should focus on his role as a clan head and leave politics to the politicians and the people. We are here to support a proven leader," Ongom stated, in a clear show of force for the incumbent MP.
His message resonated deeply with the voters of Acanpii Parish, who vowed to overwhelmingly support Hon. Santa Alum Ogwang. "We are giving our votes to Santa Alum because she has been with us through thick and thin. We know her good work and her good character," stated one of the local leaders at the rally.
The rally underscored the growing momentum behind Hon. Santa Alum Ogwang's campaign. Political observers note that she has gained significant sympathy and solidified her support base after successfully defending her seat in a recent election petition. She is now predicted by her camp to win the forthcoming election with a landslide margin of over 90% in the constituency.
The allegations by Vice Chairperson Ongom have added a new layer of tension to the race, shifting focus to issues of voter security and identity protection ahead of the polls.
