LC1 chairperson-elect faces assault allegations over political land dispute in Amolatar

31 July 2026, 12:35 pm

By Ivan Onyinge

The newly elected Local Council 1 (LC1) Chairperson for Nakituba ‘B’ Village in Muntu Sub-County, Amolatar District, Mr. Opio Culbert Opol, has been reported to the police for allegedly assaulting a widow and threatening to evict her from land she leased from him.

The complainant, Jacinta Auma, 52, a widow and mother of nine children, filed the case at Amolatar Central Police Station under SD Ref 36/30/07/2026, citing assault and simple robbery. According to Auma, the conflict stems from political tensions that emerged during the nomination period for the recent LC1 elections held on July 28, 2026.

Auma supported a competing candidate, a move that reportedly angered Mr. Opio.

He allegedly warned her and other non-supporters that they would no longer receive assistance or access to his properties.

On the morning of July 30, while tending to a hired garden plot on Mr. Opio’s land, Auma said the chairperson-elect confronted her over their political differences.

She alleges that he slapped her to the ground and forcefully took her phone away.

He came suddenly and started shouting about the elections.

Before I could react, he slapped me hard, and my phone was snatched without my consent,” Auma recounted.

When contacted by reporters, Mr. Opio denied all allegations of physical violence, describing them as entirely fabricated.

Nonetheless, he admitted ordering Auma off his land, stating,

“My property is not for free use. I have the right to decide who accesses it, and I am ready to defend myself against any charges.”

The incident has sparked outrage among local residents.

Sam Ngo, a fellow resident and candidate in the recent LC1 race, condemned Mr. Opio’s behavior toward a vulnerable community member.

“It is disappointing to see such a lack of emotional restraint and respect, especially from someone newly elected as a leader. Age should come with wisdom, not aggression,”

Ngo remarked.Police investigations remain ongoing as authorities seek to establish the facts surrounding this troubling incident.

The case under reference SD Ref 36/30/07/2026 will determine whether charges will be formally pursued.

Meanwhile, community members are calling for calm and peaceful dialogue as tensions linger following the contentious election period.