Oyam, Uganda | All candidates in the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) elections for both Western and Eastern Wards in Oyam Town Council have been declared elected unopposed, a development that continues to draw praise as a model of unity, integrity, and inclusive democratic participation.
According to local leaders, the outcome is a reflection of the deep-rooted solidarity within the PWD community, distinguishing it from other special interest groups such as the youth and elderly, where electoral contests often attract intense competition and disputes.
Peter Emuna, the District Councillor representing Oyam Town Council, observed that this pattern is not new.
He noted that PWD elections are often characterized by internal consultations and mutual agreement on leadership choices, which minimizes conflict and fosters a culture of consensus.
He further attributed the smooth conduct of the elections to the group’s commitment to values such as respect, inclusivity, and transparency.
Emuna also emphasized that vote-buying and bribery, which have increasingly tainted electoral processes in other circles, are notably absent in PWD elections.
This, he said, has preserved the credibility of their internal democracy and positioned them as a model for others.
Similarly, Ambrose Emuna, the Elections Registrar for Oyam Town Council, said the PWD electoral process remains one of the most organized and least contentious.
He noted that the high number of unopposed candidates significantly simplifies logistical work for the Electoral Commission and ensures peaceful transitions.
He also urged other special interest groups and mainstream political actors to draw lessons from the PWD approach, especially as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections.
According to him, the harmony and integrity exhibited during these elections could contribute to more peaceful and credible national electoral processes.
The peaceful outcome in Oyam serves as a timely reminder of what inclusive, values-driven elections can look like and how marginalized communities can lead by example.