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Vendors and Chairman: Gulu market leadership row deepens

28 April 2026, 12:25 pm

A view of the main entrance to Gulu Main Market. (Photo taken by Gift Okello)

By Gift Okello

Vendors at Gulu Main Market have launched a scathing attack on their association chairman, Patrick Omaya, accusing him of gross abuse of office, financial opacity, and a systemic failure to follow governance protocols.

The grievances were aired during a press conference on Monday at Florida Hotel in Gulu City. A coalition of market leaders and vendors gathered to demand accountability, painting a picture of leadership they allege has gone rogue.

A co-signatory to the association’s bank account claimed that Omaya has effectively neutralised other office bearers. The chairman is accused of usurping the roles of the treasurer and the market’s transfer committee, the body responsible for overseeing revenue from merchandise trucks.

Some of the vendors from Gulu Main Market Vendors Association protesting against leadership gaps at the main market.

Santo Obura, the market secretary, highlighted a significant breach of the association’s constitution, noting that no Annual General Meeting (AGM) has been held for over six years.

Obura Santo, the market secretary, speaking on alleged tampering with the market constitution by the leadership.

The Vice Chairperson, Oyella Florence Lagen, did not mince words, calling for Omaya to step down immediately to pave the way for an independent investigation. She further urged government authorities to suspend the upcoming market elections until the current leadership crisis is resolved.

Oyella Florence Lagen, the Vice Chairperson of Gulu Main Market, calling on the chairperson to step down to allow a forensic investigation.
Oyella Florence Lagen, the Vice Chairperson of Gulu Main Market Vendors Association (centre), addressing the press on Monday, 27 April 2026.

Margaret Ocan, another prominent vendor, echoed these sentiments, accusing the chairman of “personalising” market property and demonstrating general incompetence.

Margaret Ocan, a prominent vendor, speaking on the alleged mismanagement of the main market lorry.

In a swift rebuttal, Patrick Omaya dismissed the claims as a smear campaign. He argued that the allegations are politically motivated and orchestrated by rivals and external sponsors seeking to unseat him in the next election.

Patrick Omaya, the Gulu Main Market Vendors Association chairperson, speaking on the allegations levelled against him.
Patrick Omaya, the Chairperson of Gulu Main Market Vendors Association, addressing market vendors on Monday, 27 April 2026.

Peter Banya, the Deputy Resident City Commissioner (RCC) for Gulu City East Division, confirmed that authorities are aware of the simmering unrest. He noted that a mediation meeting is being organised to restore order and address the vendors’ grievances.

Peter Banya, Deputy RCC of Laroo-Pece City Division, speaking on the proposed mediation process for market vendors.
Peter Banya, the Deputy RCC for Pece-Laroo City Division, addressing Gulu Main Market vendors on Monday, 27 April 2026.

As the standoff continues, the vendors remain firm in their demands for immediate financial accountability, a full audit of market funds, and the facilitation of credible, transparent elections to restore confidence in the market’s leadership.