Ex-minister Kyambadde rival cries foul, withdraws from NRM primaries
“I cannot participate in a process marred by such blatant violations,” Akol said.
NRM flag-bearer candidate Sam Akol has withdrawn from the party primaries. (Courtesy photos)
By Simon Ssekidde
Journalists @New Vision
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Mpigi district-based Mawokota North Constituency National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag-bearer candidate Sam Akol has withdrawn from the party primaries, citing bias, voter intimidation, and electoral irregularities.
Akol, the current Kammengo sub-county LC3 chairperson, announced his decision just minutes before voting began, accusing the district NRM registry team, security agencies, and senior leaders of orchestrating a skewed process.
Speaking to journalists at his home in Mbute village, Akol condemned the “heavy military presence” at polling stations and alleged “abnormalities” in the voter register.
He specifically accused the district registrar of forging the register to exclude his supporters and criticised the last-minute relocation of polling centres to private homes, a move he claimed disenfranchised voters.
MP and ex-trade minister Amelia Kyambadde. 
“I cannot participate in a process marred by such blatant violations,” Akol said, directing his grievances to NRM National Chairman President Yoweri Museveni and party electoral commission head Dr Tanga Odoi.
“This was a deliberate ploy to deny me victory. I urge the party leadership to investigate and hold the district registrar accountable,” he added.
Akol’s chief rival, two-time MP and ex-trade minister Amelia Kyambadde remained silent on the allegations.
However, NRM district information secretary Paddy Bukenya dismissed Akol’s claims, asserting the party had “not received any official withdrawal letter” and insisting Akol’s alleged supporters were not registered NRM voters.
“We formed a team to mobilise voters, but many were not on the NRM register. This is not the party’s fault,” Bukenya countered, vowing to issue an official response once Akol formalises his withdrawal.