Lira City – In a surprising move, NRM stalwart Winstone Ogwang has declined to participate in the election for the party’s Secretary General in Lira City, citing concerns over fairness and potential chaos.
Ogwang, who had strong backing from youth, women, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), stated that he chose to step aside for the sake of peace and unity within the ruling party.
“For the sake of peace, love, and unity, I decided not to participate in the election for General Secretary of the NRM Lira City structure," Ogwang revealed.
“I knew the election wouldn’t be free and fair, and I feared chaos would erupt because of the overwhelming support I had from different groups."
His withdrawal left Morris Chris Ongom as the sole candidate, leading to his declaration as the unopposed winner. However, sources indicate that some party delegates were dissatisfied, preferring a competitive race.
Ogwang urged NRM members to remain united and continue mobilizing support for the party and President Yoweri Museveni.
“I call upon all party members to stay focused, work together, and strengthen the NRM in Lira City," he said.
Political observers suggest that Ogwang’s decision reflects deeper tensions within the party’s grassroots structures, where internal disputes over fairness in elections have occasionally flared up.
NRM officials have yet to comment on Ogwang’s claims, but Ongom’s victory has been formalized.
As the ruling party prepares for future elections, the incident highlights the challenges of maintaining internal democracy while avoiding divisions that could weaken its dominance in the region.
