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A former parliamentary aspirant, Akol Hellen Odeke, has come forward with serious allegations that her life and that of her family are in danger following her attempt to contest against Speaker of Parliament Anita Among during the last general election.
Akol, who vied for a parliamentary seat in eastern Uganda, says she has endured persistent death threats, intimidation, and property destruction since the elections. According to her, individuals believed to be loyal to Speaker Among have repeatedly harassed her family, forcing them to live in fear and uncertainty.
“I have to inform the public about my life, which is being threatened,” Akol said in a recent statement. “I was also told that I will not reach 2025 when I am alive.”
Akol claims that her family’s home and property have been vandalized, yet local police have allegedly refused to intervene, saying her problems are “political” in nature. “The police told me they can’t help because my issues involve powerful people,” she said.
Human rights advocates have condemned what they describe as a growing culture of political persecution in Uganda, where opposition figures, critics, and independent women politicians face harassment for challenging entrenched power.
“Uganda’s democracy is being undermined when candidates are silenced through fear and threats,” said a Kampala-based women’s rights activist. “Every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, deserves protection under the law.”
The case has sparked fresh debate on the safety of women in politics, especially those who dare to challenge powerful incumbents. Civil society organizations are urging Ugandan authorities, including the Uganda Human Rights Commission and Parliamentary leadership, to investigate Akol’s claims and guarantee her safety.
As Akol continues to speak out despite the threats, her courage highlights the rising risks faced by female politicians and activists across Uganda—where power struggles too often turn into personal vendettas.
“All I want is to live and to serve my people without fear,” Akol said. “But right now, I live every day wondering if it will be my last.”
