By Jazeerah Mirembe
Four candidates have been nominated to contest the Adjumani West parliamentary by-election, setting the stage for campaigns ahead of the September 17, 2026 vote.
The candidates are three independents—Patrick Tandrupasi, Gasper Draga and Ben Anyama—and James Leku Pilli, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party flag bearer.
The Electoral Commission in Adjumani District concluded the two-day nomination exercise on Tuesday, with the candidates now expected to begin campaigning for the seat left vacant by the death of former Adjumani West MP, Gen (Rtd) Moses Ali.
Adjumani District Electoral Commission Returning Officer Christine Akao Eunice said the candidates will meet on Wednesday to harmonise their campaign programmes and promote peaceful campaigns.
Akao said the arrangement is intended to minimise clashes that could occur when candidates schedule campaign activities in the same areas at the same time.
“This is to ensure that when they go for campaigns, they will be able to solicit for votes peacefully and ensure there are no clashes among candidates as they move,” Akao said.
She urged the candidates and their supporters to respect the agreed campaign schedules and comply with Electoral Commission guidelines throughout the campaign period.
The by-election is expected to attract 51,438 eligible voters, an increase of more than 3,500 from the previous electorate of 47,930.
Adjumani West Constituency comprises Adjumani Town Council, Pachara, Adropi, Ciforo and Ukusijoni sub-counties, with 23 parishes, 114 polling stations and 99 villages.
The candidates will now take their campaigns to voters through rallies, community engagements and other lawful activities as they seek to secure the seat.
The contest pits three independent candidates against the NRM flag bearer in a race to replace Gen (Rtd) Moses Ali, who represented the constituency before his death.
The Electoral Commission has urged candidates, supporters and voters to maintain peace and adhere to electoral guidelines throughout the campaign and voting process.
The September 17 election will give residents of Adjumani West an opportunity to elect a new representative to Parliament.