KAMPALA, Uganda — In a dramatic development that has sent waves through Kasilo County and beyond, the long-awaited declaration has finally arrived: Emaju Peter Paul (also known as EPP) has been affirmed by the NRM Tribunal as the rightful flagbearer for the upcoming 2026 general elections.
What’s Behind the Drum Roll?
Primary Results Initially Showed a Clear Win. On July 14, 2025, during the NRM primaries, Emaju secured a commanding victory with 9,420 votes (65.5%), defeating his rival Moses Edonu, who garnered 4,951 votes (34.5%). This outcome was widely interpreted as a popular mandate to end the long-standing dominance of opposition stalwart Elijah Okupa, who has held sway in the region since 2001.
But the Peace Was Short-Lived. Trouble quickly followed the vote. Kampala-based candidates Peter Ojiit and Esther Lucy Acom filed petitions alleging electoral impropriety. Soon after, William Olir, the NRM registrar for Serere district, was arrested on July 24, 2025, and remanded to Serere Government Prison. He stands accused of forgery and falsifying declaration forms, specifically for allegedly manipulating tallies to declare Emaju the winner despite the purportedly legitimate outcome.
The Tribunal Issues Final Word. Following these serious allegations, the NRM Election Disputes Tribunal received numerous petitions from affected candidates. After deliberation, the tribunal affirmed Emaju’s legitimacy as the party’s flagbearer, validating what many local voices have long supported; that “EPP is the rightful flagbearer.” This decision is being hailed as a victory for justice, transparency, and the will of the people.
What This Means for Kasilo and Beyond
EPP’s Mandate Stands Unchallenged
The tribunal’s ruling cements Emaju’s position and silences the contestations — at least for now.
Momentum Builds for 2026
With a court-endorsed ticket, Emaju appears poised to mount a robust campaign to reclaim Kasilo for the NRM. His supporters are already rallying around the message: “The mission to redeem Kasilo is alive and unstoppable!”
Voices from the Ground
NRM insiders and Kasilo constituents are echoing sentiments of relief and resolve:
“The voice of the people has spoken, loud and clear!” “We celebrate this moment with gratitude and renewed energy.”
These reflect a broader narrative: this isn’t just about politics — it’s about justice, recognition, and the power of democracy .
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