By James Alomu 

SOROTI CITY - Juliet Agonyo, the current Speaker of Soroti City Council and aspirant for the Soroti City Woman MP seat under the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party, has firmly remained steadfast despite the halting of the FDC party primaries in Teso region, including Soroti, Kumi, Ngora, and Amuria.

In an exclusive interview, Agonyo emphasized that her position is unaffected by recent developments within the party. She expressed confidence in her readiness to participate in the primaries, maintaining that she is "unshaken" and "stable" while awaiting official communications from the party leadership.

“I am not shaken but stable in my position,” Agonyo said. “I believe in paperwork, not rumors and allegations. Let the party president or secretary general issue the final communication. We are still waiting for a clear explanation on why the primaries were halted in Teso and when they will proceed. But I am fully ready to face the primaries, and I am confident I will lead, as I am the people's choice."

The suspension of the FDC primaries in Teso, attributed to decisions made by party officials, has raised questions among party members and the public. However, Agonyo noted that no official candidate appointments have been made, and the letter issued by the party's electoral commission merely outlined the delay in conducting elections without naming any replacements or clarifying future plans.

“The letter that was read to us at the party headquarters in July only provided details about the suspension of the primaries and did not mention any appointed candidates,” Agonyo explained. “We were informed that we should remain calm, but some individuals are using this as an opportunity to spread false rumors and allegations. As far as I’m concerned, I’m waiting for the official guidance from the party leadership."

She stressed the importance of clear communication within the party and expressed hope that the FDC would adhere to its established processes. "If the party intends to skip primaries or make any changes, it should be communicated officially, in writing. This way, we can all understand the way forward. But for now, I am ready to contest the primaries and represent the people of Soroti."

Agonyo also took the opportunity to address rumors circulating on social media and in the public that she is being funded by the Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Anita Annet Among, to challenge incumbent Soroti City Woman MP, Alobo Joan Acom. Agonyo strongly dismissed these allegations, calling them “false political propaganda.”

“I want to completely dismiss the allegations that I am being funded by Speaker Anita Among to create disputes within the FDC,” Agonyo said. “These claims are not true. If people are in the race, let them compete fairly, and let the voters decide. Spreading such baseless rumors does nothing but stir unnecessary conflict.”

Agonyo also made it clear that her candidacy is driven by her belief in offering better opportunities for the people of Soroti, rather than any political motivations related to the presence or absence of any individual. "I didn't enter this race because someone else is not there. I believe I can offer better opportunities for the people of Soroti. It’s about how you represent the people, and how you will ensure that taxpayers' money benefits everyone," she added.

Regarding the allegations involving Speaker Anita Among, Agonyo emphasized that her own leadership stands independent of any internal conflicts within the party or national politics. "If anyone has issues with Speaker Anita Among, they should not drag me into it. Leadership is a matter of God's grace, and what’s not meant for you won’t be for you. As Speaker Agonyo, I have no disputes with her or anyone else. We must learn to separate party politics from service delivery. We serve different people, not just one political party."

Agonyo urged her supporters to remain calm and patient as they await the official communications from the FDC leadership. “I know that FDC has a respected process of communication, and I trust that the party will honor its democratic principles and encourage the rights and freedoms of its members to choose the leaders they want.”

As the party awaits further guidance on the Teso primaries, Agonyo remains resolute in her belief that democracy and fairness will ultimately prevail within the FDC 

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