KATAKWI: As the Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections, the Vice President Jessica Alupo Rose Epel, has been formerly declared unopposed for the Katakwi District Woman Member of Parliament seat after her only challenger Angella Anuken, withdrew from the race.
She was declared unopposed by the Katakwi District Electoral Commission (EC) Returning Officer, Stephen Makubuya, on behalf of EC Chairperson, Justice Simon Mugenyi Byamakama at the EC offices in Katakwi on December 24, 2025 .
The declaration was witnessed by a packed audience of NRM leaders, security officials, religious figures and an excited large crowd of supporters.
“ The withdrawal of Anuken was formally communicated to the commission earlier today, in full compliance with Electoral Commission regulations. Her withdrawal letter was received and processed, clearing the path for Alupo’s uncontested candidacy”, said Mukubuya.
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.
In her maiden speech shortly after being declared unopposed e declaration, Alupo commenced the Electoral Commission, and the supporters who filled the EC offices.
Alupo said she was grateful for the sisterly competition from her opponents, noting that several of them had already received placements in government.
She reaffirm her commitment to continue mobilising resources for wealth‑creation initiatives that empower youth, farmers, women, elderly and small‑scale entrepreneurs.
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 the 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’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.
Alupo is credited for her vibrant 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.
