By Nathan Eyagu

Soroti – The organization of Women’s Day celebrations in Soroti City has ignited significant political controversy, particularly within the National Resistance Movement (NRM), as tensions rise among party members and political aspirants.

Peter Pex Paak, the Resident City Commissioner (RCC) of Soroti, addressed the allegations circulating on social media regarding his involvement in the belated Women’s Day event preparations held at Nature Gardens.

The preparation meeting, which took place on Sunday at Nature Gardens, attracted around 300 women and various political aspirants. It quickly became a focal point for discussions surrounding political unity and inclusivity in the region. Paak explained that he had been invited by a group of women cadres to guide the delayed celebration. Accompanied by his deputy, the female Deputy RCC for the Eastern Division, Paak left her to assist the women in organizing the event.

During his speech, Paak emphasized that International Women’s Day should be a collective effort involving the city women’s council, the community development officer, and collaboration with the local woman member of parliament. He also informed the women that the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development had not allocated the usual three million shillings for the event this year.

Despite this financial setback, Paak encouraged the women to proceed with their fundraising efforts and assured them that security would be provided during the event. Furthermore, he pledged to work with the city clerk and division town clerks to secure contributions to ensure the celebration would be both colorful and successful.

However, Paak’s remarks did not go without controversy. Allegations spread on social media, with some individuals claiming that NRM cadres were calling for his removal as RCC and for the Community Development Officer, Damali, to remain neutral. These accusations came amid rising tensions within the NRM regarding the Women’s Day celebration, further deepening divisions among political aspirants and those vying for leadership positions in Soroti.

In response to these allegations, Paak defended his record in Soroti since taking office in 2021. He expressed surprise at the claims and reiterated that he has always worked in the best interests of Soroti, Teso, and Uganda at large. Paak acknowledged that, as with any leadership decisions, not everyone would be satisfied, but he emphasized that political diversity was crucial for addressing the needs of the community. “I have never and will never suppress any political voice in Teso,” Paak asserted.

Paak reaffirmed his support for women’s initiatives in Soroti and called for unity among all political factions in the region. "Men should stand beside women, support their functions, and work together to ensure their success," he remarked. His comments underscored his commitment to fostering an inclusive, peaceful environment and ensuring that the celebration of women’s achievements remains a unifying force in the community.

The ongoing controversy over the Women's Day celebration highlights the political rifts within Soroti and the challenges of maintaining cohesion within the NRM.