By Tolit Ivan
Caesar Lubangakene, an Independent candidate for the Laroo-Pece Division Parliamentary seat in Gulu City, has unexpectedly withdrawn from the race.
In his withdrawal letter to the Electoral Commission (EC) Lubangakene cited personal reasons for his withdrawal from the race.
Michael Jjjuko, the Gulu City Returning Officer, confirmed the development.
His withdrawal now leaves nine candidates vying for the seat including the incumbent MP Rev Fr Charles Onen who is contesting on Independent ticket.
Others are Norbert Mao, the Democratic Party candidate, Tony Kitara (NRM), Opoka Simon (UPC), Okello Samuel (DF), Opobbo Wilfred (Independent), Charles Odokonyero (Independent) and Komakech Geoffrey (FDC).
It’s not yet known whether the return of Mao, who is also the Justice and constitutional Affairs Minister, has to do with Rubangakene’s withdrawal.
Mao made a quiet political return to local politics after years of focusing on national politics.
He claims his surprise return to local politics was a directive from President Yoweri Museveni Kaguta, the chairperson of the ruling National Resistance Movement Party (NRM), chairman who directed Richard Todwong, the NRM Secretary General, to create a constituency for him and Laroo-Pece division parliamentary constituency was identified as a suitable election area for him.
