President of the Democratic Party (DP) Norbert Mao has congratulated George Labeja, an independent candidate who was declared the winner in the Gulu mayoral race after beating Democratic Party’s Geoffrey Otim.
In a statement dated March 3, 2016, Mao congratulated Labeja upon his victory.
“We congratulate you for running an energetic campaign which contributed to your victory,” Mao said in the statement.
In the just concluded mayoral race, Mao supported DP’s Geoffrey Otim. The DP president and George Labeja, the incumbent exchanged barbs… I wish you the best in your new mandate as Mayor of Gulu Municipality.’’
But Mao in his statement said electioneering was over and called for unity.
‘‘Even though the heat of the campaigns polarized opinions, and pitted contending parties against each other, we should remain united in our desire for a better municipality.
The DP leader says his ‘‘teaching’’ (during campaigns) were not motivated by any ill will or negative sentiment but rather by the overflowing love he (Mao) has for the people.
Geoffrey Otim, the DP candidate came third with 4,289 votes. NRM’s Alfred Okwonga came second with 5,739 votes,
Labeja who abandoned NRM party for the pressure group, The Democratic Alliance – Uganda (TDA-U) managed to retain his seat with 6,556 votes.
Labeja had accused the DP leader for inciting voters against him and yet he is a TDA- U candidate.
After being declared winner, Labeja pledged to put political rivalry and work for the development of the municipality.
Other candidates in the Gulu Mayoral race were Denis Okello Oweka (Independent), Martin David Aliker (FDC), Robert Adongakulu (Independent), Maliam Okello, Joachim Labongo Olweny (independent) and Michael Lokiko also an independent.
