Anthony Akol, the Member of Parliament for Kilak North, is disputing the recent election of new leaders for the Acholi Parliamentary Group (APG), claiming it was conducted unlawfully.
Akol’s term officially ended in January 2024. He argues that the election took place while he was away on parliamentary duties, making it invalid.
Akol, who has served as the APG chairperson since July 2021, alleges that the new leadership was chosen without the consent of most members of the group.
The newly elected APG chairperson is Amos John Okot, with Betty Aol Ocan as vice chairperson and Denis Onekalit Amere as deputy secretary-general.
Akol asserts that he remains the legitimate chairperson of the APG until a fair and transparent election is conducted.
Ricky Richard Anywar, the outgoing vice chairperson of APG, has also criticized the election process, labeling it as an act of intrigue and external manipulation aimed at undermining the unity of Acholi legislators.
Anywar insists that a genuine election, involving all 30 members of the APG, should take place, and he has announced plans for such an election on February 22.
Betty Aol Ocan, the newly elected vice chairperson of APG, has criticized Anthony Akol for his failure to address internal conflicts within the group. Although she did not participate in the contested election, she has accepted her new role and is committed to bridging gaps left by previous executive members.
The Acholi Parliamentary Group, established in 1989, has historically been a prominent platform for Acholi legislators to address regional challenges. However, internal strife and power struggles have weakened the group’s influence over time.
Akol’s challenge to the election underscores the divisions within the APG and raises questions about the legitimacy of the newly elected leadership. As the dispute unfolds, the future direction of the APG and its ability to effectively represent Acholi interests remain uncertain.