The political landscape in Dokolo district has been abuzz with rumors of FDC’s James Otoo Apili leaving the party to join Uganda People’s Congress (UPC).
The news has been spreading like wildfire, with many speculating on when and how this would happen.
As the date for his supposed switch to the UPC party approached, discussion rose and questions mounted. Would he really leave the FDC party, where he holds a prominent position in Northern Uganda, to join UPC, a party that is gaining popularity in Lango region?
In an interview, Otoo Apili addressed these rumors and clarified his position.
He emphasized that as a high-level leader in FDC, he would not make any sudden decisions without having a thorough discussion with his party members.
“I am a high level leader in FDC party leading around 38 districts in northern Uganda and for any move we shall just have to sit and talk but not locals to declare that am already in UPC party ” he explained.
When asked about his relationship with UPC party, He stated that his relationship with the UPC party has become closer in recent days but was not clear about his decision to join them.
Otoo said his popularity in the political arena has made him a sought-after leader by various parties, including the ruling NRM party.
He attributes the rumors of his defection to the admiration people have for him and his skills as a leader.
On the other hand, the UPC party registrar for Dokolo district, Francis Olwal, shed light on the procedures for joining the party.
He explained that there is an ongoing party registration process, and once an individual is registered in their village, the process continues at the parish, sub-county, district, and regional levels, before reaching the national headquarters.
“This means that any member can participate in party elections and even run for a leadership position if they follow the proper procedures” Olwal said.
Olwal also clarified that the party is aware of only two individuals, Ecar Pius and Peter Ogwang, who will be vying for the party’s flag during the upcoming party primary elections.
Getting comments from FDC party Chairperson for Dokolo district Julius Peter Okello Awany was futile by press time as his phone went unanswered.
The news of Otoo Apili’s potential defection caused a stir, but his clarification has provided some assurance and clarity to the people.
Peter Ogwang, former Dokolo district speaker expressed his gratitude to those interested in joining the UPC party.
He also commented on the recent alleged party switch of FDC’s James Otoo Apili.
Ogwang firmly believes that in order for a party to be successful, it needs numbers.
He stated, “Apil’s interest to join the UPC party does not threaten us. In fact, it only strengthens our party as it adds more numbers and support from different backgrounds.”
When asked about Apili’s decision to leave his previous party and join UPC, Ogwang had a bold response.
He believes that if Apili’s former party had any weight and value, he would not be quiting it.
However, he believes that it is now up to Apil to prove himself through his actions and leadership if he joins UPC party.
As a seasoned politician and former district speaker, Ogwang has a deep understanding of the importance of party loyalty and unity.
He passionately stated, “I call upon all interested individuals to join the UPC party and dance to the tune of the party.
The political climate in Dokolo district is always dynamic and ever-changing as Olwal’s statement dispels the rumors that Otoo Apili will be joining the race for the party’s leadership.
