Augustine Otuko, a longtime political figure in Ngariam County, has officially picked up nomination forms to run in the upcoming NRM party primaries. This puts him in direct competition once again with the current MP and State Minister for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang.
After collecting the forms, Otuko spoke to the press and said he is fully committed to leading in a way that includes and supports all people in Ngariam. He spoke strongly against what he called a rise in political fear and division, which he blamed on the current MP.
“We need to stop politics that use threats and separate people. The people of Ngariam need leaders who unite and support them, not ones who cause mistrust,” Otuko said.
Looking back on the 2021 elections, Otuko raised concerns about cheating, such as vote rigging and bribery. He believes these unfair actions ruined the trust in the election process.
Now, he is hopeful that things will be different. He praised the NRM Secretariat for introducing new systems to prevent the bad behavior he says is used by “a group of political cowards.” He said, “We now have a digital Party Membership and Voter Register, thanks to the good leadership of the Party Chairman and the National Secretariat. This will help make the primaries fair and clear.” He also urged the Party Electoral Commission to stay firm and alert, especially by watching local officials in villages and sub-counties closely to stop any misconduct.
Otuko said the party must also improve how it manages elections inside the party. He believes that better organization will help restore trust among voters. He is hopeful that the elections scheduled for July 16, 2025, will truly reflect the voice of the people.
“I believe the people of Ngariam are ready for change—change that brings unity, good service, and true democracy. We saw proof of this in the recent local elections, where we had strong support and forced Ogwang and his team to retreat,” Otuko concluded.
