Political tensions soar as Odonga-Otto and MP Komakech clash online

13 November 2024, 14:34

By Kinyera Lakomekec

As Uganda prepares for the 2026 elections, a heated online feud between former Aruu County MP, Odonga-Otto Samuel Jr., and incumbent Komakech Christopher has ignited intense political debate in Pader district.

The dispute, sparked by an offhand remark from X (formerly Twitter) user Kelvin Timothy, is rapidly becoming a flashpoint as both politicians strive to assert their dominance ahead of the upcoming polls.

The feud began on 12 November 2024, when Kelvin Timothy, in response to Odonga-Otto’s social media post attacking Nakaseke MP Luttamaguzi Semakula, criticised Odonga-Otto’s electoral defeat. Kelvin stated, “That’s why you lost and my friend Komakech won,” referring to Odonga-Otto’s previous electoral loss.

The comment, a direct jab at Odonga-Otto’s political career, prompted a swift retaliation from the former MP.

Odonga-Otto responded, denying any defeat and instead claiming he had been “cheated” in the elections, citing a High Court ruling in his favour on the matter. He also took the opportunity to attack Komakech, describing him as a “future former MP” and dismissing his chances in the 2026 elections. Odonga-Otto confidently asserted that Komakech could never match his political influence, branding the incumbent as unable to fill his shoes.

Komakech, known for his combative rhetoric, quickly fired back. He accused Odonga-Otto of dishonesty, mocking him for “lying in his late 40s,” and claimed that his opponent had previously resorted to election malpractice, including violent tactics. Komakech also declared that lying at an older age was “no longer excusable,” signalling his intention to face Odonga-Otto in the 2026 race.

The exchange didn’t stop there. As the feud intensified, Odonga-Otto continued to downplay Komakech’s political prospects, reinforcing his belief that the current MP’s future in politics was bleak. He provocatively claimed that Komakech was “lucky” that he was seeking a separate elective position, implying that his political career would soon come to an end.

Meanwhile, Odonga-Otto’s attacks also drew in Luttamaguzi Semakula, whom he mocked in another post, further fuelling the already heated online discussion. This added to the animosity between the two camps, making it clear that this was more than just a personal spat but a serious prelude to the 2026 electoral battle.

The escalating feud has captivated the public, drawing attention to the rivalry between the two prominent political figures in the region. Both Odonga-Otto and Komakech are positioning themselves for the 2026 elections, with each claiming to be the rightful leader for Pader district.