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Gulu city LC1 races underway low registration, and money demands worry candidates

21 July 2026, 12:28 pm

Election poster at a polling station in Kasubi Quoans Quarters kasubi ward Bardege Layibi division Gulu city during voters registration.

By Emmanuel Mwaka.

Local Council 1 (LC1) election campaigns officially kicked off on July 20, 2026, across Gulu City, marked by candidate enthusiasm alongside key logistical and structural challenges.

In Laliya Dwol Cell, located within the Laroo-Pece City Division, candidates reported a mix of smooth campaign starts and growing concerns over voter turnout, campaign organization, and civic awareness.

Speaking to our reporter, Mr. Ojara Michael, an LC1 candidate for Laliya Dwol Cell, expressed optimism about the initial launch but pointed out major hurdles. He raised concern over the low number of registered voters in the area and criticized the Electoral Commission for failing to harmonize campaign schedules, leading to venue clashes among opposing candidates.

Mr. Ojara Micheal candidate for Laliya Dwol cell on voters registration.
Mr. Ojara Micheal LC1 candidate for Laliya Dwol cell in Laliya ward Laroo Pece city division Gulu city speaking to our reporter on Monday 20 July 2026.

Another LC1 candidate for Laliya Dwol Cell, Ms. Ayero Maureen, echoed similar concerns regarding low voter registration numbers. She noted that candidates are facing financial pressure on the trail, with voters frequently demanding money from candidates after campaign rallies.

Ms Ayero Maureen on the financial pressure from voters.
Ms. Ayero Maureen an independent candidate Lc1 Laliya dwol Gulu city speaking to our reporter on Monday 20 July 2026.

Meanwhile, Mr. Clay Owiny, also contesting for the LC1 chair in Dwol Cell, urged community members to familiarize themselves with the statutory duties and responsibilities of LC1 leaders so they can make informed choices at the ballot box.

Owiny Clay another candidate on the roles of LC1s.

Commenting on the exercise, Hon. Otema Wilson Agemo, the Area Councillor IV for Laliya Ward in Laroo-Pece City Division, commended the Government of Uganda for organizing the elections, noting that while the polls were long overdue, grassroots democracy remains vital for local governance.

Hon. Agemo on the thanking the government for organizing elections.
Hon. Otema Wilson Agemo the area councilor for Laliya ward laroo pece city division speaking to our reporter on Monday 20 July 2026.

Repeated call to the Gulu city returning officer for comments went unanswered during the time of filing this story. Ugandans goes to polls for Lc1 on 28 July 2026 with women council elections slated for 23 july 2026.