Lira, Uganda | August 7, 2025 – Aceng Patricia Ogwang, a determined aspirant for the Lira City Woman Member of Parliament seat in the 2026–2031 elections, has firmly dismissed allegations labeling her as a “planted candidate” in a spirited address to the public.

The accusations, which she attributes to supporters of her opponents, Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero and Gender Minister Betty Amongi, have been circulating on social media and in local discussions, questioning her candidacy’s legitimacy. Undeterred, Aceng Patricia has reaffirmed her commitment to her vision for Lira City’s development, urging voters to focus on her agenda and reject divisive propaganda.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lira City, Aceng Patricia addressed the claims head-on, describing them as baseless attempts to tarnish her reputation. “The narrative that I am a planted candidate is not a question but a deliberate smear by those who see my candidacy as a threat,” she stated. “I am a lawful person with a clear vision for Lira City. These allegations are meant to distract, but I will not be derailed by negativity or intrigue.” She emphasized that her campaign is driven by a genuine desire to serve and bring tangible progress to Lira City, a rapidly growing urban center in the Lango sub-region.

Aceng Patricia Ogwang, a former journalist with Voice of Lango FM and a well-known community advocate, media trainer and CEO of Wanacel Foundation highlighted her track record of service as evidence of her commitment.

In May 2025, she launched a campaign to distribute Mama Kits, basins, and mats to expectant mothers in Ipito Aweno-Ipito Gweno and Barogole wards, addressing maternal health challenges in Lira City West Division. Beneficiaries like Akello Betty and Apio Vicky praised her initiative, noting its impact on easing the burden of safe deliveries. Additionally, in June 2025, she was lauded for personally financing life-saving surgery for an 11-year-old girl in Owinyo-Boroboro East, an act of compassion that resonated deeply with the community.

The aspirant, who initially sought the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket but announced in June 2025 her decision to run as an independent after her name was removed from the party’s Yellow Book, stressed that her loyalty lies with the people of Lira City. “Every leader has a vision and a dream to chase. Mine is the development of Lira City—better healthcare, infrastructure, and opportunities for all,” she said. “The mandate rests with the voters, and I trust they will choose a leader based on competence, not rumors.”

The allegations of being a “planted candidate” stem from the heated political rivalry between Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, the incumbent Woman MP and Health Minister, and Betty Amongi, the Gender Minister and Oyam South MP, who recently relocated her polling station to Lira City to contest the same seat.

Political observers note that the 2026 Lira City Woman MP race is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest, with Aceng Patricia’s entry adding complexity to an already tense electoral landscape. Some speculate that her opponents’ supporters are framing her as a spoiler candidate to weaken one of the two ministers, a claim she vehemently rejects.

“I know what is right, and I am guided by integrity,” Aceng Patricia declared, warning those spreading unverified claims of legal repercussions. “Anyone who speaks against me without facts will face the law. We cannot allow propaganda to undermine the democratic process.” She urged her supporters to remain focused on her campaign’s message of unity and progress, assuring them that she is prepared to navigate the nomination process in September 2025 and compete in the January 2026 elections.

Community leaders and residents have rallied behind Aceng Patricia’s candidacy, praising her grassroots approach. Atim Sarah, former chairperson of Ipito Aweno SACCO, vouched for her integrity, confirming that Aceng Patricia was a registered NRM member before her controversial removal from the party’s register. “She has shown leadership through action, not just words,” Atim said. Residents like Okello Peter from Barogole Ward expressed optimism about her candidacy, citing her accessibility and commitment to addressing local challenges.

As the 2026 elections draw closer, Aceng Patricia remains steadfast, emphasizing that Lira City deserves a leader who prioritizes development over political maneuvering. “I am not here to divide but to unite,” she said. “Let the voters decide who will chase their dreams for a better Lira City.” With nominations approaching, her campaign is gaining momentum, setting the stage for a competitive race that will test the will of Lira City’s electorate.

Written by

Francis Oyet

Oyet Francis Opwonya, known commonly as Francis L’Oyet is a Ugandan South Sudanese investigative journalist and software engineer. Oyet is the founder and CEO of Oyet Broadcasting Services (OBS Network), an innovation hub and headquarters of The Northern Press in Uganda and The Malakal Press, located in Malakal City, Upper Nile State in the Greater Upper Nile region of South Sudan