🔊FDC faces backlash after bypassing primaries in Soroti

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Tension has erupted within the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party in Soroti district and city following its failure to conduct party primaries.

The primaries had been scheduled for July, but were suspended on grounds that the party was updating its register and addressing concerns about allegedly biased electoral commissions.

However, after a month of waiting, candidates who had expressed interest in contesting for positions such as MPs, mayors and councillors were surprised by a letter from the party’s electoral commission in Kampala endorsing candidates of its choice for all those positions.

While the positions of MPs in Dakabela and Soroti counties were uncontested, in Gweri three candidates had expressed interest in unseating incumbent Tom Julius Ekudo.

In a letter dated August 26, 2025, and signed by FDC chief electoral commissioner Boniface Toterebuka Bamwenda, Ekudo was endorsed as the party flag bearer despite the position being contested by Abel Opolot, Jacob Odela and David Asubu.

The Soroti electoral commission boss, Mary Akello, confirmed the development and expressed fears that the decision would create divisions within the party.

Abel Opolot described the process as a total violation of the party constitution and an abuse of party members.

Jacob Odela said he was shocked and promised to announce his decision next month after consultations with his voters.

In Soroti city, the party endorsed MPs Joan Alobo and Jonathan Ebwalu as well as all other positions.

For Soroti city mayor, Paul Omer was endorsed, while Gabriel Ogire was endorsed as mayor for Soroti city east division and Isaac Asaku for Soroti city west division.

Speaking to this radio, Peter Patrick Emaru blamed the party’s top leadership and Soroti city MPs for manipulating the system.