Adjumani West By-Election: Race Heats Up Between Draga and Leku Pilli as Rivals Withdraw

The upcoming Adjumani West parliamentary by-election is now a head-to-head contest, with independent candidate Gasper Draga set to face off against NRM’s James Leku Pilli. This shift follows the decisions of Patrick Tandrupasi and Ben Anyama, both running as independents, to step aside from the September 17 race.

Despite facing pressure from various quarters, including NRM officials, relatives, and friends, Gasper Draga has affirmed his commitment to remaining in the running. Draga stated he is resolute and will not abandon his campaign, emphasizing his integrity and refusal to compromise his principles for personal gain.

Draga also commented on internal divisions within the NRM in Adjumani, suggesting his independent candidacy could serve as a unifying force to bridge these factions. He expressed that his past electoral experiences have only strengthened his resolve, despite three previous unsuccessful bids.

Patrick Tandrupasi confirmed his withdrawal from the race but did not elaborate on the specific reasons behind his decision. Ben Anyama, the former Adjumani District LCV Chairperson, also withdrew his independent candidacy. Anyama initially ran independently after feeling unfairly treated in the NRM primaries, where he narrowly lost to Leku Pilli.

However, Anyama cited President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s appeal for party unity and peace in Adjumani as the catalyst for his eventual withdrawal. NRM officials lauded Anyama’s decision to step down in favor of party solidarity.

With Tandrupasi and Anyama out, the by-election is now solely between Draga and Leku Pilli, setting the stage for a direct electoral battle.

Source: Nile Post