Kotido RDC Convenes Emergency Security Meeting Ahead of NRM Primaries

Kotido rdc Ichogor in blue suit chairing the meeting, (photo credit: Richard Onapatum)

By Richard Onapatum  
Kotido, Uganda — July 3, 2025

With growing fears of electoral violence ahead of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries slated for July 17, Kotido’s Resident District Commissioner, Charles Ichogor, on Wednesday convened an emergency meeting with political aspirants and top security officials. The gathering, held at the RDC’s office, was aimed at restoring calm and charting a path toward peaceful campaigns.

More than 30 aspirants attended the session, including parliamentary, mayoral, LCV, and Woman MP candidates. The Uganda Police Force, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) were also well represented, with top-ranking officers pledging neutrality and decisive action against electoral misconduct.

“We are not going to allow Kotido to become another Ssembabule,” Ichogor said. “This election must be determined by manifestos, not militancy.”

### Escalating Tensions and Security Red Flags

June saw a spike in politically linked incidents across Kotido District. Authorities cited cases of defaced posters, violent confrontations, use of government vehicles in campaigns, and inflammatory messages aired on local radio. Allegations of covert rearming of warriors added to concerns, especially in politically sensitive subcounties.

Ichogor warned that failure to rein in such behavior could delegitimize the primaries and threaten district stability.

Lotee Paul Komol the incumbent lcv during the meeting

### Aspirants Speak Out

The atmosphere turned candid as several aspirants voiced concerns and proposals.

Paul Komol Lotee, the incumbent LCV chairperson, urged his colleagues to reject “power gained through intimidation,” while LCV aspirant Simon Peter Lodiya warned security forces against perceived favoritism.

Ismail Lomwar Didi, incumbent MP of Kotido Municipality, called for mutual respect across party lines. Mayoral aspirant Peter Abrahams Irar suggested a binding peace pledge among candidates.

kotido municipality incumbent mp Ismail lomwar Muhammad Didi giving his submisiion

Adome Bildad Moses, MP aspirant for Kotido Municipality, highlighted targeted vandalism of his campaign materials and demanded equitable protection. Parliamentary aspirants Apa Beye and Lochap Daniel raised questions on the clarity of venue allocations and media airtime distribution.

Meanwhile, Woman MP Margaret Achilla Aleper advocated for dignity in leadership and more issue-based debates. she also criticized what she termed the “recycling” of male politicians into Woman MP contests, calling it “an affront to genuine female representation.

“We are not placeholders, “We are contenders. Respect the women’s vote., Aleper said,  Her challenger, Nuria Teko, expressed fear of the constant security threats askin her cocunter part to practice fair politics not intimidating her. “i cant sleep, all night u find cars suspected to be yours parked infront of my home” she lamented

### Security Commanders Weigh In

Security leadership reaffirmed commitment to electoral neutrality and readiness to intervene decisively against violence.

Col. Gaston Mugarura, commander of the 409 Brigade, warned that any candidate involved in rearming civilians or inciting unrest would be arrested. Lt. Col. Kafureka of the 43rd Battalion echoed that UPDF would not escort or endorse candidates, but only ensure peace.

Representing the UPDF 3rd Division Commander, Brig. Gen. Wilberforce Sserunkuma, was Maj. Yasin, who pledged continued military-police coordination across the region.

SSP Denis Ochoma, Kidepo Regional Police Commander, assured that police — not soldiers — would manage campaign security. District Police Commander SP Ssekalema and ASTU Sector Commander SP Nelson Muyonjo also reaffirmed their commitment to impartial enforcement of electoral guidelines.

### Action Points and Commitments

 the District Internal Security Officer (DISO), Lt. Aisu David the secretary of the meeting presented a list of resolutions:

– All aspirants are to sign a peace declaration committing to nonviolence.  
– Campaign venues will be shared, and no aspirant may exit before others have spoken.  
– Vandalism of campaign materials will be prosecuted as criminal damage.  
– Use of government assets for political purposes is prohibited.  
– Security officers must not display political symbols or language.  
– Broadcasters must avoid inflammatory rhetoric, slander, or tribal provocation.  
– A hotline will be established for incident reporting and rapid security response.

### Turning Point or Temporary Truce?

As the meeting drew to a close, RDC Ichogor offered a final challenge.

“We are not just choosing leaders,” he said. “We are defining the character of Kotido District for the next generation.” as he wished them succes and peaceful elections.

The audience responded with measured applause. As the aspirants left the RDC compound, some exchanged handshakes, others kept their distance. Whether the agreements made within those walls translate into peaceful campaigning on the ground remains to be seen.