Former Ambassador Pibby Awere Declares Independent Bid for Tororo Woman MP Seat
TORORO — On 5 August 2025, former Ugandan High Commissioner to Kenya, Phibby (Pibby) Awere Otaala, announced her decision to run as an independent candidate for the Tororo Woman Member of Parliament seat in the 2026 general elections
Awere’s announcement was made during an interview on T FM’s “Community Connection”, following her defeat in the NRM party primaries, where she lost to incumbent Sarah Achieng Opendi, who secured 65,750 votes against Awere’s 29,536 Africa .
Awere sharply criticized the conduct of the primaries, alleging “major irregularities” across multiple sub-counties and insufficient oversight over declaration forms. She described the process as a “total confusion” and accused village registrars of handling sensitive election documents improperly . Awere emphasized the need for stronger voter education and civic awareness to ensure future fairness in elections .
Recent administrative changes in Tororo have reshaped the political map. With the creation of Tororo City and several new districts, Awere had reportedly shifted her ambitions toward the newly created Tororo City Woman MP seat, though now she repositions as an independent hopeful for the district position all.
Her decision comes amid broader discontent from other aspirants who also failed to secure NRM nominations at the district level, with multiple figures weighing independent campaigns across Tororo constituencies. The shift highlights rising unrest with the internal primaries and local party structures .
As she launches her independent campaign, Awere is urging voters to unite behind a platform of transparency, accountability, and inclusive leadership, especially appealing to constituents frustrated with entrenched political divisions and long-serving incumbents.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Candidate | Phibby (Pibby) Awere Otaala — former High Commissioner to Kenya |
| Announcement Date | 5 August 2025 during T FM interview |
| Primary Results | Opendi: 65,750 votes; Awere: 29,536 votes |
| Reasons for Independent | Alleged vote manipulation, missing declaration forms, inadequate oversight |
| Context | Administrative restructures: creation of Tororo City and new districts |
| Broader Reaction | Multiple dissident NRM aspirants considering independent runs |
| Campaign Focus | Accountability, civic education, unity beyond tribal or party lines |
Pibby Awere’s candidacy brings momentum to a growing movement in Tororo for political renewal and grassroots representation. With the 2026 elections approaching, locals and political watchers alike are watching to see if independent voices like hers can break through traditional party dynamics.
