By Mike Rwothomio

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Election Disputes Tribunal  in a land mark ruling has affirmed Berocan Epiphany as the duly elected NRM flagbearer for Jonam County Member of Parliament in Pakwach District, dismissing a petition by rival candidate Omito Robert Steen.

The decision clears the path for Berocan to lead the NRM’s campaign in the constituency for the 2026 general elections, reinforcing party unity and grassroots mobilization.

The tribunal’s ruling addressed a contentious challenge to the July 17, 2025, NRM primaries, where Berocan secured 27,089 votes (67%) against Steen’s 15,189 (36%). 

However, the tribunal found insufficient evidence to substantiate these claims, except for the wrongful exclusion of Alwi Sub-County results, which it deemed did not substantially affect the election outcome.

Tribunal Dismisses Allegations of Malpractice 

Steen’s petition accused the NRM District Registrar, Gipatho Gloria, of voiding Alwi Sub-County’s results where Steen polled 6,413 votes against Berocan’s 493  to suppress his stronghold. The tribunal acknowledged this irregularity but noted that even with these votes included, Berocan would maintain a lead of 5,980 votes (27,582 to 21,602). 

Allegations of electoral violence involving Captain Peter Ochan Okello, purportedly linked to Berocan, were dismissed due to lack of evidence tying the actions to the candidate. 

Claims of bribery, including an alleged UGX 20 million payment to Gipatho, and falsification of results in areas like Panyimur Town Council were also found unproven, with the tribunal citing insufficient credible evidence.

Berocan Calls for Unity and Grassroots MobilizationIn a heartfelt address to Jonam constituents, hailing the tribunal’s ruling as a “triumph of hope over doubt, of unity over division, and of progress over the status quo.” 

Expressing gratitude to supporters, he declared, “You are not just voters; you are guardians of democracy.”

He  dedicated the victory to the fishing communities, market vendors, teachers, and youth of Jonam, emphasizing inclusive development.

The senior economist outlined an ambitious vision for Jonam, pledging to unleash economic potential, improve education and employable skills, strengthen healthcare, and develop infrastructure to connect communities.

“The time for waiting is over. The time for action is now,” Berocan stated, urging supporters to ignite a “strong engine of grassroots mobilization” across every village, parish, and sub-county in preparation for the 2026 elections.

Berocan’s call for unity and  political affiliations, inviting all Jonam residents to join a movement for a prosperous future. “Let us unite as one people, with one destiny, to claim the future we deserve,” he urged.

Berocan now faces a tough contest from independent candidates and those representing various political parties, all vying for the MP seat in Jonam County.

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your grassroot informtions