Omaria not too old for office

By Kenneth OtimThe former state minister for internal affairs, Col. William Omaria, has said he is not too old for the district chairmanship as is alleged by his opponents.He made the remarks at a joint rally held at Odudui primary school in Arapai sub-county, Soroti, recently. “If Ssebaana who is older than me can lead effectively what about me ?” he asked.Omolo who is also contesting for the seat, spoke first and alleged that Omaria was his uncle and should not contest with his nephews in the race.Omaria said, “Omolo calls me his uncle but I am not related to him at all. I am the same age as him.”He said the incumbent, Emily Otekat, was as old as him but was only dyeing his hair to look young.The statement interrupted the speeches as the crowd laughed and shouted. He said he had done a lot for the people of Soroti including giving up his house to set up Onyakai primary school located next to his village residence.Omaria said as a senior army officer he could manage the affairs of the district.“Omolo is a business-man. how can he say that he can run the district? There is no room for those who want to train on job,” he said.He added that Otekat was a weak leader.