MBALE – Loyce Akiror, a student of Public Administration at Kampala International University – KIU has expressed interest in the Bukedea LCV seat, to replace her late father, Moses Olemukan.
Akiror, 28 announced her intentions during the funeral service of her father in Akuoro Village, Bukedea sub County on December 27, 2022.
The first born in a family of 16 children revealed her intentions in reaction to a section of the people, who indicated in their speeches that Olemukan needed a replacement from his kinfolk.
She noted that appearing on the ballot in a by-election was the only way she could assist Olemukan’s big family of three wives and a concubine.
“I know you people loved our father, that’s why you came in big numbers, bracing through the mud to bid farewell to him. As his daughter and the first born in the family, the only gift for my father is your approval and vote for me to replace him,” she said as the crowd cheered.
She said that she’s ready to carry on with the activities, mission, and vision of her father to see Bukedea transformed.
Before her speech, the Speaker of Ikariwok- Idanyawos clan, Peter Olupot requested government to assist in educating, and offering jobs to Olemukan’s children who are under the school-going- age bracket.
Stephen Ochola, the Serere LCV chairperson who doubles as the head of Teso region district leaders, said that they were ready to campaign for Akiror to ensure that she replaces her father when the Electoral Commission conducts a by-election for the Bukedea LCV seat.
Raphael Magezi, the Minister of Local Government blessed Akiror with Ugx2m to start her mobilisation to replace her father.
“We shall support and help your campaign to secure victory. Nobody knows best the aspirations of Olemukan than his daughter. The people of Bukedea -you have been challenged to prove your love for Olemukan,” he said.
Olemukan was buried at his home in Akuoro Village, Bukedea sub County in Bukedea district. He served his second term as the Bukedea LCV chairperson on an independent ticket after losing the NRM flag to William Wilberforce Tukei.
Olemukan was credited for the charisma that saw his voters embrace and love him. In Akuoro village, more than 20,000 people braved the cold weather to bid farewell to him.
Akiror’s announcement came just a day after the deputy Speaker of Parliament; Thomas Tayebwa presented Emmanuel Omoding, the first born to the deceased Serere County, Patrick Okabe as a replacement for Okabe.