MP Maxwell Akora defends bid to oust Ocan in Apac municipality

MP Maxwell Akora

Maruzi County Member of Parliament, Maxwell Akora, has explained his decision to shift his political ambitions to Apac Municipality, where he plans to challenge incumbent MP Patrick Ocan, a fellow Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) representative.

Speaking to our reporter, Akora addressed public concerns over his decision to contest in Apac Municipality despite his shared party affiliation with Ocan. He clarified that his move aligns with the interests of UPC leaders, who believe Ocan no longer serves the party’s agenda and instead favors the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

Akora recalled that when Apac Municipality was created in 2018, UPC supported Ocan in securing the parliamentary seat, a stance that continued in the 2021 elections. However, he lamented that the party has gained nothing from Ocan’s tenure.

He further accused Ocan of working closely with Apac District Woman MP, Betty Engola, an NRM member, at the expense of UPC.

Following extensive consultations and meetings, UPC leaders resolved that Akora should challenge Ocan, starting with the party’s internal primary elections.

“Apac Municipality is my former constituency, and I am ready to reclaim it. More importantly, the party is backing my ambition,” Akora stated.

He emphasized that Ocan’s disengagement from UPC activities contributed to the poor performance of several party-affiliated councillors in the 2021 elections in Apac Municipality.

Akora expressed confidence that his victory would help UPC regain control of Apac Municipality, especially as the party struggles with dwindling support in the area.

Chris Ongom, UPC’s Regional Chairperson for Northern Uganda, confirmed to Unity FM that the party intends to subject both Akora and Ocan to an internal primary election to determine its official candidate for Apac Municipality in the upcoming general election.