A section of residents in Bukedea District has expressed approval following the decision by former Speaker of Parliament, Annet Anita Among, to withdraw from the race for the Speakership of the 12th Parliament.
Among, who presided over the 11th Parliament, announced earlier on Monday that she would not seek re-election for the top parliamentary position.
Her withdrawal comes at a time when the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is reportedly probing her over allegations related to corruption, money laundering, and the source of her wealth during her tenure as Speaker. The investigations have intensified public debate on accountability and transparency in leadership.
In Bukedea, some residents say the decision reflects growing concerns about leadership conduct and governance.
Everline Anabo, a resident of Malera Sub-county, said residents view the development as part of broader accountability efforts, adding that they support scrutiny of leaders in public office. She argued that perceptions about the former Speaker’s leadership style and conduct had already caused divisions within the community.
Anabo further stated that residents were not interested in interfering with ongoing investigations, insisting that accountability processes should take their course.
Another resident, Enos Oluka, emphasized the need for leaders to prioritize public service over personal interests. He said political leaders are entrusted with positions to improve communities and not to advance individual gain, adding that young people should learn from current leadership experiences.
Oluka also described Among’s withdrawal from the race as appropriate, but urged her to publicly address concerns raised by sections of the electorate, including those who feel dissatisfied with her leadership.
Civil society voices in the district also weighed in on the matter. Santos Osekenye, who chairs a local civil society group, said many residents remain disappointed, citing challenges in service delivery, particularly in health, education, and infrastructure.
He noted that issues such as inadequate medical supplies in health facilities, poor road networks, and gaps in education services continue to affect communities in the district.
Meanwhile, Mercy Alupo, a former aspirant for Bukedea Woman Member of Parliament, argued that justice for affected residents would only be realized through a more inclusive political process, including possible by-elections. She claimed that some local aspirants had been unfairly locked out of previous electoral contests.
Allegations have also circulated over the years suggesting that several individuals who attempted to challenge Among in past elections were disqualified during nomination processes. Some of the affected candidates pursued legal action, though their petitions were not successful in court.
As discussions continue, residents and local leaders have called for greater transparency in leadership and electoral processes, urging authorities to ensure fairness and accountability in future political contests.
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