Judith Alyek rejects Okwerodot women’s council election results, cites malpractice

20 August 2026, 12:53 pm

By Frank Oyugi and Isaac Erick Odongo

OKWERODOT, KOLE — Former Kole District Woman Member of Parliament Judith Alyek has rejected the election outcome for the Okwerodot Sub-county Women’s Council Chairperson seat.

The election followed a postponement caused by confusion over voter attire and election guidelines. On polling day, some voters arrived wearing pink outfits—a color linked to specific political affiliations—which violated regulations against partisan dress at voting centers. The election official subsequently rescheduled the poll.

Following the rescheduled vote, Election Officer Paul Awany declared independent candidate Betty Atim the winner for the 2026–2031 term, recording 21 votes against 19 votes for Judith Alyek. Awany noted that any candidate dissatisfied with the declared results may file a petition to the returning authority for formal review.

In statements to journalists, Alyek—contesting as the official National Resistance Movement (NRM) flagbearer—alleged voter intimidation and procedural irregularities during the voting and tallying process. She stated that she has documented her complaints and formally notified local police and security leadership.

Alyek also expressed disappointment with senior district leaders, accusing Kole North MP Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti, Kole Woman MP Sandra Acheng, and Kole Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Gillian Akullo of actively opposing her candidacy and supporting an independent contender against party directives.

Responding to the allegations, Kole RDC Gillian Akullo dismissed the claims as political gamesmanship, stating she was absent during the earlier exercise due to illness and urged candidate leaders to respect the democratic process. Repeated attempts to reach Dr. Opio Acuti and Sandra Acheng for comment were unsuccessful.

Following her declaration, Betty Atim welcomed the results and expressed her commitment to serve all women in Okwerodot Sub-county regardless of political alignment.