KATAKWI: Vice President Jessica Alupo Rose Epel has been formerly declared unopposed for the Katakwi District Woman Member of Parliament seat after her sole challenger Angella Anuken, withdrew from the race this morning.
The announcement was made by the Katakwi District Electoral Commission (EC) Returning Officer, Mr. Stephen Makubuya, on behalf of EC Chairperson, Justice Simon Mugenyi Byamakama at the EC offices in Katakwi today, Dec 24, 2025 .
The declaration was witnessed by a packed audience of NRM leaders, security officials, religious figures and an excited large crowd of supporters.
According to Mr. Makubuya, the withdrawal of Anuken was formally communicated to the commission earlier today, in full compliance with Electoral Commission regulations. Mr. Makubuya revealed that Anuken’s letter of withdrawal was received and processed, clearing the path for Alupo’s uncontested candidacy.
Immediately after the declaration, vice president Alupo stepped forward to thank the EC, and the supporters who filled the EC offices.
Alupo was grateful for the sisterly competition from her opponents and noted that several of them had already received placements in government.
She added that she would continue to focus on mobilising resources for wealth‑creation initiatives that empower youth, farmers, women, elderly and small‑scale entrepreneurs.
Anuken, who had been nominated to contest as the Woman Member of Parliament for Katakwi district, cited inability to participate in the 2026 general elections in her withdrawal letter to Makubuya.
Alupo recently won the NRM Party Primaries, beating Violet Akurut Adome and Anuken, who initially planned to run as an independent candidate.
Supporters of VP Alupo are ecstatic about the development, taking to social media to congratulate her on her unopposed win.
“This is a big win for Katakwi! VP Alupo is the best choice for our district, and we’re ready to support her all the way,” tweeted @NRM_YouthWing.
NRM leaders are also hailing Anuken’s decision, saying it’s a show of party unity and commitment to the ruling party’s candidate.
As the news continues to spread, jubilations are erupting in Katakwi, with Alupo’s supporters taking to the streets to celebrate Alupo’s unopposed victory.
Alupo for MP!” they chanted, wailing ululations and dancing in celebration. Alupo’s team is confident that her unopposed win is a testament of her popularity and the trust the people of Katakwi have in her leadership.
The unopposed declaration of Alupo underscores the confidence placed in Vice President Alupo’s stewardship, which has already contributed to advances in security, agriculture and youth empowerment across the Teso sub‑region. Observers expect her continued focus on infrastructure, health and education to shape Uganda’s path forward.
