Former government spokesperson Ofwono Opondo has clinched the Eastern Region Older Persons parliamentary seat unopposed after his Democratic Party (DP) rival, Joram Mpande Kigenyi, withdrew a petition that had challenged his nomination.
The Electoral Commission Tribunal, chaired by Justice Simon Mugyenyi Byamukama, on reviewing the matter, confirmed that the DP candidate had conceded, effectively clearing the way for Opondo to represent older persons from the region in the 12th Parliament (2026–2031).
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Opondo said the tribunal’s decision followed his rival’s concession in a petition that had accused him of forgery in nomination documents.
> “Today my opponent Mpande Joram Kigenyi—DP candidate—conceded my petition @UgandaEC Tribunal chaired by Chairperson Justice Simon Mugyenyi Byamukama over forgery in nomination documents & I was declared unopposed @NRMOnline MP Older Persons Eastern Region,” he posted.
The ruling cements Opondo’s victory on the NRM ticket, making him the next Member of Parliament for Older Persons in Eastern Uganda, one of the special interest group constituencies under Uganda’s parliamentary structure.
A veteran communicator and longtime public servant, Opondo is expected to bring his extensive experience in governance, policy, and media to champion issues affecting older citizens across the region.
Observers say his unopposed election underscores the NRM’s continued influence in special interest group politics and reflects the confidence both the party and senior citizens have in his leadership.