Vice President Jessica Alupo has secured another term as Katakwi District Woman Member of Parliament after her only opponent, Anuken Angela, formally pulled out of the race, leaving her unchallenged.
The Katakwi District Returning Officer, Stephen Makubuya, announced the development on Wednesday afternoon at the district Electoral Commission offices, confirming that the withdrawal was lawfully effected.
Makubuya said Angela submitted a written notice withdrawing from the contest, a move permitted under Section 36 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, which allows candidates to step down before polling day.
He explained that with no remaining contender, the law compelled the Electoral Commission to declare Alupo the winner. Citing Section 37 of the same law, Makubuya stated that a candidate can be declared elected unopposed once all other aspirants withdraw.
Moments after the declaration, Alupo thanked electoral officials and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership, describing the process as orderly and lawful. She also used the moment to acknowledge women she has competed against over the years.
“I thank all my sisters I have competed with in this and previous elections for always showing political maturity and unity,” Alupo said. “This spirit allows us to work together for the good of our people.”
The Vice President pledged to continue focusing on service delivery in Katakwi District, identifying peace and security, education, health services, infrastructure, and household income growth as her top priorities.
She pointed to government programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, women and youth funds, and disability grants as key tools for transforming livelihoods at the grassroots.
“These programmes ensure that every Ugandan can participate in wealth creation, and the people of Katakwi will not be left behind,” Alupo said.
She urged residents to take advantage of the initiatives, emphasizing that government support must be matched with commitment and hard work by citizens.
The declaration ceremony was attended by NRM National Vice Chairperson for Eastern Uganda, Calvin Echodu, alongside party officials and supporters, who hailed Alupo’s continued leadership in the Teso sub-region.