Rev. Nicholas Komakech, Chaplain of YY Okot and Jabuloni Issoke Memorial College, has called on voters in Kitgum to reject the practice of “Wang oo” or campfire night campaigns, warning that it undermines democracy and promotes corruption.
Speaking during a Sunday sermon at All Saints Cathedral, Komakech described voter bribery as an evil practice that prevents citizens from electing leaders based on merit and vision. “Voters should have the freedom to choose candidates based on their manifestos, not money or gifts,” he said, urging residents to avoid attending events where candidates hand out cash or favors to sway votes.
Komakech stressed that both the law and the Bible condemn bribery, and that voters must prioritize the capability and integrity of leaders over financial inducements. He also criticized the security deployment around former presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), calling for respect of his and his family’s rights like those of any other citizen.
Echoing earlier warnings from NGOs and civil society organizations, Komakech said candidates should present clear policies and plans rather than rely on money to win support. Charles Ocaya, a National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate for Pager Division Urban, noted that the “Wang oo” tradition disadvantages candidates without financial resources. “If you don’t organize it, you risk being voted out,” he said, urging voters to evaluate candidates on competence rather than cash incentives.
Rev. Komakech also encouraged citizens to turn out in large numbers for the remaining elections, emphasizing that local leaders are directly accountable to the communities they serve. “The leaders who will be elected will work directly with you, unlike Members of Parliament who spend most of their time in Kampala,” he said.
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