Jimmy Akena
The embattled President of the Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC), Hon. Jimmy Akena, has issued Executive Order No. 001/2025 to expand the voter base used in selecting UPC flag bearers ahead of the upcoming general elections.
The executive order, signed on July 30, 2025, addresses concerns over the limited composition of current voting bodies established under Articles 9.1, 10.1, and 11.1 of the UPC Constitution, which define the structures of Subcounty, Constituency, and District Conferences. According to Akena, these small voting blocs are susceptible to manipulation and bribery, risking the selection of candidates who do not represent the grassroots will of the Party.
To strengthen internal democracy and boost grassroots participation, Hon. Akena has directed the UPC Electoral Commission, working with District Chairpersons and their Executive Committees, to include all elected Branch (Village) Executives as voters in the Party’s internal primaries.
The directive clarifies that this expansion applies strictly to UPC internal elections for choosing Party flag bearers and recommends using Parish Headquarters as polling stations to ensure accessibility, efficiency, and transparency.
“This decision is aimed at improving the democratic credibility of the Party’s internal processes and ensuring that our flag bearers reflect the genuine support of our members at every level,” said Akena.
Issued under Article 14.3(1), (2)(1), and (J) of the UPC Constitution, the order marks a significant shift in how the Party will conduct candidate selection for national elections.
An Extra-Ordinary Delegates Conference held recently extended Aken’s term in officer by one year.
Court recently blocked Akens attempt to secure a third term as UPC Party President.
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