In a strong showing of political strength, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) has swept the two mayoral races in Gulu City, securing victories in both Pece-Laroo and Bardege–Layibi divisions. This win marks a significant milestone in NRM’s expanding influence within local government leadership.
Aber Gifter Wins in Pece-Laroo Division
The Pece-Laroo Division mayoral race saw a fierce contest, with NRM’s Aber Gifter emerging victorious. She garnered 8,081 votes, triumphing over the Democratic Party’s (DP) incumbent, Geoffrey Otim, who received 5,403 votes. Moses Abonga from the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) came in third with 1,005 votes.
The division recorded a total of 14,489 valid votes, with 363 ballots deemed invalid. Gifter’s victory underscores the growing appeal of NRM in local elections, especially in contested areas like Pece-Laroo.
Patrick Okello Triumphs in Bardege–Layibi Division
In another key race, Patrick Okello, widely known as Okello Sukari, secured a decisive win in Bardege–Layibi Division. Representing the NRM, Okello polled 5,489 votes, leaving DP’s Fred Ngomkwe trailing with 1,756 votes. Independent candidates Yasinto Oyat and David Onencan followed with 1,281 and 866 votes, respectively.
With 9,392 valid votes counted and 294 invalid votes, Okello’s win solidifies NRM’s dominance in Gulu’s political landscape, further cementing its control over the city’s leadership.
Post-Election Remarks and Promises
Following her win, Aber Gifter expressed her commitment to improving local services in Pece-Laroo. She pledged to collaborate with technocrats and local leaders to enhance service delivery and tackle corruption within the division. “I will work together with technocrats and leaders to make sure services reach the local people,” Gifter remarked, emphasizing her goal to foster a transparent and accountable administration.
NRM’s Growing Influence in Gulu City Politics
The NRM’s clean sweep of the Gulu City mayoral races highlights the party’s increasing influence and stronghold in Uganda’s local politics. The victories in both Pece-Laroo and Bardege–Layibi divisions represent a significant consolidation of power, ensuring that NRM remains a dominant force in the region’s political arena.
As Gulu City moves forward under new NRM leadership, residents can expect more active political engagement, with a focus on service delivery and fighting corruption at the local level. The results reflect not only NRM’s political might but also the trust local communities have placed in its candidates.