Two Ministers Dr Jane Ruth Aceng and Betty Amongin to face off in Lira Parliamentary race this follows Patricia Aceng, an independent candidate from quitting the race .
Aceng was competing against Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, the NRM candidate and Uganda People’s Congress-rival Gender Minister Betty Amongi Akena.
In a letter addressed to the Electoral Commission chairperson, Aceng said her decision was out of her desire to uphold the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party’s unity, harmony, and collective progress.
“After extensive reflection and consultation with leadership and stakeholders from my political party, I have chosen to step aside,” she stated. She added that the decision was guided by a commitment to safeguard party values, avoid divisions among supporters, and present a united front in the upcoming elections.
James Ipeto, the Lira City Returning Officer, confirmed receipt of Aceng’s withdrawal letter, noting that her request has been approved. Addressing circulating claims on social media that she was “bought out” of the race by her NRM opponent, Patricia Aceng dismissed the allegations as false. “The claims that I was bought out are unfounded and should be ignored. My decision was made out of loyalty, discipline, and respect for the party’s direction,” she said.
Aceng further added, “I am now waiting to discuss with our party chairman, knowing that stepping aside was not easy. I sacrificed my only lamp for the unity and future of our party.” Last month,
