Tension is rising in Orungo as shocking reports emerge accusing Minister Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, Uganda’s Minister for Microfinance, of sponsoring violence against voters who refuse to support his preferred candidate in the ongoing NRM party primaries.
On the night before the primaries, chaos broke out when a group of men attacked Akiramu Erobu, a campaign agent working for MP aspirant Teddy Anyuk Osire. Erobu was beaten badly and left with serious injuries. According to his testimony, the attack happened around 10:00 PM, and he personally saw Solomon Amali, his candidate’s opponent, commanding the attackers. Shockingly, the goons were allegedly transported in a vehicle linked to Minister Kasolo.
Police later arrested 12 suspects and impounded a suspicious numberless vehicle found with alarming items inside — cutlasses, sticks, wire locks, and campaign materials with Minister Kasolo’s face printed on them. These included a pull-up banner for his campaign as NRM National Vice Chairperson for the Central Region, papers in Luganda, and multiple signatures. The findings have left residents in fear, and many are now accusing Kasolo of using violence to influence the outcome of the elections in Orungo.
Several people in the area claim that Kasolo is using his government position to intimidate voters and force support for his alleged candidate, Solomon Amali, who also happens to be Kasolo’s former bodyguard. Community members are now speaking out, saying that they are being targeted for supporting Teddy Anyuk Osire. Some report being threatened, while others fear more attacks if they don’t fall in line.
Teddy Anyuk Osire has condemned the attack on her agent and called out what she described as the “misuse of government resources for selfish political gains.” She encouraged voters to remain brave and show up in large numbers despite the intimidation.
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Amuria, Paul Eseru, has promised to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure peaceful elections. Police have increased security in the region and are preparing charges against the suspects, including assault and interfering with the electoral process.
This incident has sparked outrage across the region and raised tough questions about the role of leaders in promoting peace during elections. Many now believe that Minister Kasolo must be held accountable for what appears to be a well-organized plan to beat and silence opposing voices.
As the investigation continues, voters in Orungo are demanding justice, transparency, and above all, peace. All eyes are now on Minister Kasolo to explain why his vehicle, campaign materials, and weapons were found at the scene of the violence.
