Minister urges voters in Acholi to back 2016 polls extension

The Minister for Relief and Disasters Preparedness, Mr Hillary Onek, has urged voters in Acholi sub-region to support plans by some MPs to draft a Bill to defer the 2016 general elections to 2021.

Addressing journalists at the ground launch of the Gulu-Kamdini road construction at the weekend, Mr Onek described the proposal as “a brilliant idea” that will give both the government and legislators ample time to accomplish their goals.

“If this draft Bill is enacted, it will enable the government to scrutinise and implement the various electoral reforms as being demanded by opposition political parties, the Electoral Commission and civil society activists,” Mr Onek said.

“It is, therefore, the mandate of the locals in the region to help garner for the support of the proposal so that they see their leaders and the government fulfill their promises,” he added.

He, however, refuted that his support of pushing for the 2016 elections to be postponed was based on claims that he has lost support on the ground and has become politically weak.

“I am very confident of my political strength and even if polls go as scheduled in 2016, I am confident that I will still win,” Mr Onek said.

Kilak County MP Gilbert Olanya, however, dismissed the call by fellow legislator, saying the Constitution was very clear on elections.

Mr Olanya said the Constitution states that election should be held after every five years.

editorial@ug.nationmedia.com

SOURCE: monitor.co.ug

Written by admin