Candidates promise security, unity, improved social services and inclusive leadership ahead of LC I elections in Pader Town Council

17 July 2026, 6:09 pm

By Geoffrey Okwong

Candidates contesting for Local Council I (LC I) positions in Pader Town Council have pledged to promote security, unity, improved social services and equitable distribution of government programmes if elected, as the nomination exercise officially got underway.

Speaking shortly after his nomination, Richard Okidi, who has been serving in the office of the LC I Chairperson for Amor Cell in Luna Parish, said weaknesses in the previous leadership motivated him to contest for the position.

Okidi pledged to ensure that all government programmes reaching the community benefit every resident regardless of sex, religion or family background.

He also promised to address the area’s water crisis, noting that many boreholes and other water sources are currently non-functional.

On security, Okidi said he would work closely with his committee members and security agencies to curb petty theft, adding that community resources should always benefit the people they are intended for.

Meanwhile, Nighty Akello, an aspiring LC I Chairperson for Oloki Lee Cell in Lagwai Parish, said she joined the race because Uganda’s Constitution guarantees women equal opportunities to participate in leadership.

Presenting her manifesto, Akello said women in her community remain less empowered because leadership positions are largely occupied by men, whom she said often give priority to their own interests when government programmes are implemented.

Akello also pledged to work closely with security agencies to tackle rising cases of theft in the town council by strengthening community vigilance and exposing criminals operating within the cell.

Another aspirant, Juliet Ayaa, who is contesting for the Women Council Chairperson position in Oloki Lee Cell, pledged to promote unity among women and champion their empowerment.

Ayaa said women have been left behind in community development and called for a change in attitudes towards women, stressing that they deserve equal respect and opportunities both in their homes and in leadership.

She urged women to unite and work together for a better future, saying meaningful development can only be achieved when women are fully involved in decision-making and community affairs.

The nominations mark the beginning of campaigns ahead of the forthcoming Local Council I elections, during which residents will elect grassroots leaders expected to spearhead local development, mobilise communities and promote peace and security.

Speaking at the Electoral Commission offices in Pader, Pader Town Council Sub-county Election Officer Saddam Hussein said the nomination exercise for LC I chairpersons and Women Council Chairpersons officially commenced today and will run until 19th July 2026.

Hussein said the exercise had registered a positive turnout and that there had been very few complaints regarding the filling of nomination forms.

He encouraged aspiring candidates who had not yet reported for nomination to take advantage of the remaining days before the deadline.

He also appealed to members of the public and candidates to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the electoral process.

Hussein reminded voters that the LC I elections will be conducted through the lining-up voting system, urging residents to avoid violence, intimidation and conflicts before, during and after the elections.