Ogile Jakayo calls on the secretariat to investigate NRM leadership in Oyam

14 November 2024, 9:40 am

By Woo Christ

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership in Oyam district faces growing controversy, with accusations of extortion and mismanagement circulating within its ranks.

Mr Phillips Ogile Jakayo, the district’s Publicity Secretary, has made serious allegations against the acting district chairman, Mr Jasper Onena, accusing him of soliciting funds from prospective aspirants ahead of the upcoming party primaries.

Speaking after an extended District Executive Committee (DEC) meeting on Tuesday, 12 November, Mr Ogile claimed that Mr Onena’s actions were undermining the integrity of the party’s local leadership.

Mr Ogile expressed frustration at the lack of transparency, stating that he had not been informed of the meeting’s purpose, which he suspects was intended to pressure aspirants into making financial contributions.

Adding to the controversy, Mr Ogile also accused Mr Onena of misappropriating quarterly funds provided by the NRM Secretariat, which are designated to support official party meetings. He called on the NRM secretariat to investigate the leadership in Oyam, particularly Mr Onena.

He raised concerns about the allocation of these funds, alleging that Mr Onena was using them improperly, while the meetings themselves lacked transparency and appeared to serve questionable purposes.

In response, Mr Onena denied the accusations, countering that Mr Ogile himself was more interested in personal financial gain than the party’s welfare.

Mr Onena described Mr Ogile as a “double dealer,” suggesting that his involvement with various organisations is driven by personal ambition, including a possible bid for a local council leadership role.

“People like Ogile are the ones constantly begging aspirants,” Mr Onena remarked, asserting that the allegations were part of Mr Ogile’s personal agenda.

The clash between the two officials has sparked significant concern among NRM members in Oyam district, with many now questioning the integrity of the district leadership.

The ongoing dispute has led some party supporters to voice similar frustrations privately, fearing that unresolved internal issues could damage the NRM’s credibility in the region.

With primary elections approaching, pressure is mounting on the NRM’s national leadership to intervene.

Though no official statement has been released, sources within the party suggest that an internal review may be conducted to address the allegations and restore trust in the local leadership.

Observers argue that swift action is crucial, as the party’s response will likely impact its image and support base in Oyam district during this critical election period.

However, Nommy Otyeno, Speaker of the Oyam District Council and the NRM aspiring MP for Oyam South constituency, refuted the allegations. He stated that aspirants were neither asked nor forced to contribute towards the meeting, calling for unity among party members.