Zombo NRM breaks silence on candidate “fake paper” rumors, postpones joint campaign

Zombo: The National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership in Zombo District has spoken out against swirling rumors alleging that some candidates were disqualified over fraudulent academic qualifications, commonly referred to as “fake papers.”

Describing the claims as unfounded and politically motivated, party officials called on NRM members and the public to dismiss the allegations, labeling them as deliberate attempts to discredit candidates and sow division within the party.

The NRM boasts a strong foothold in the district, with 130,730 registered members out of a population of over 300,000.

As the party gears up for its July 16, 2025, primary elections ahead of the 2026 general polls, tensions are running high. The spread of misinformation and disinformation poses serious risks undermining public trust, polarizing the electorate, and potentially destabilizing the democratic process.

Sadiki Onencan, the NRM Publicity Secretary for Zombo, addressed the rumors during an interview, dismissing them as “outright lies” pushed by political detractors. He emphasized that no candidates had been disqualified and confirmed the official nomination of multiple contenders including; district Women MP seat nine candidates, Okoro County MP seat five candidates including Sam Kumakech, Denis Orera, Gabriel Okumu, Alipanga Benjamin, and Norbert Okello, Ora County five candidates while three are fighting for district LCV flag.

Onencan condemned the “politics of malice and mudslinging,” urging aspirants to engage in issue-based campaigns that uphold the values and unity of the NRM. He noted that such smear tactics, often amplified via social media and informal networks, risk discrediting legitimate candidates and aggravating intra-party tensions.

Zombo Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Festus Ayikobua had earlier cautioned against these divisive tactics, warning of their potential to damage reputations and disrupt the electoral cycle.

Efforts to reach Zombo NRM Administrator Oliver Freeman for additional comment were unsuccessful.

The threat of misinformation is especially significant in regions like Zombo, where electoral stakes are high and political competition is fierce. False narratives can distort voter perceptions and diminish confidence in the electoral process.

His Majesty Ubimu Philliph Rauni Ularker III, the Alur King, recently addressed this issue during a June 20, 2025, thanksgiving ceremony for Dr. Amos Nyathirombu. He urged political actors to embrace transparency and campaign on the strength of clear, policy-driven manifestos.

Adding to the political developments, the NRM announced the postponement of its district-wide joint campaign, originally slated for July 1, 2025. Onencan cited “technical arrangements” as the reason for the delay and assured the public that a new date would be announced soon.

Joint campaigns are critical for consolidating support, promoting shared goals, and minimizing internal rifts. Unlike individual rallies, they offer a unified front that reinforces party cohesion while mobilizing the electorate more effectively.

Onencan encouraged supporters to remain mobilized, emphasizing the party’s commitment to launching the initiative in the near future.

As political campaigns unfold, observers emphasize the importance of focusing on the real challenges facing Zombo’s population over 90% of whom depend on subsistence agriculture.

The district’s farmers face significant barriers, including; poor soil fertility, limited access to high-quality seeds, inadequate knowledge of pest and disease management and low adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices.

These issues have resulted in low productivity, minimal income diversification, and persistent poverty. Candidates have been urged to prioritize sustainable agricultural policies, modern farming education, and rural development in their platforms.

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