Gulu market leadership elections suspended over fraud, poor governance allegations

GULU - Authorities in Gulu city have suspended elections for the Gulu Main Market Vendors Association following mounting allegations of fraud, poor governance, and deepening divisions within its leadership.

The decision was reached on April 29, 2026, during a high-level security meeting at the Gulu Main Market conference hall chaired by deputy Resident City Commissioner (Laroo-Pece) Peter Banya.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders to address escalating tensions between the association’s leadership and rival factions.

Banya directed the association to halt all election processes and instead prioritise presenting a comprehensive audit report to both members and the city security committee.

The move comes amid concerns of accountability and transparency in the management of the association, which has over 4,000 members.

Security officials revealed that the association has operated for six years without a proper audit, raising alarm over financial mismanagement. Only one audit report has reportedly been produced since the group’s formation.

Earlier petition

Earlier this week, a rival faction led by Santo Obura petitioned the President’s Office, accusing current chairperson Patrick Omaya of poor leadership, lack of transparency, and manipulating the association’s constitution to serve personal interests.

The tensions escalated after Omaya announced plans to conduct sector elections on May 2. 

However, security intervened, stating that proper procedures, including a delegates’ meeting and a general assembly, must first be followed.

Banya accused the current leadership of attempting to manipulate the electoral process by registering non-members, including mobile vendors allegedly aligned with Omaya, and altering election guidelines.

“We have compiled a verified list of delegates. Only legitimate members will participate in the upcoming meeting,” Banya said, adding that security personnel will be heavily deployed to ensure order.

Delegates meeting

A delegates’ meeting has now been scheduled for May 4, 2026, with strict measures to prevent external interference.

Meanwhile, a preliminary report from the Police Criminal Investigations Department, presented by the Aswa West regional OCCID officer, who asked not to be named for security reasons, pointed to systemic failures within the association.

Investigators cited weak oversight by the city's commercial office, a flawed constitution, and non-functional governance structures such as the disciplinary committee.

The report also flagged financial irregularities, noting that only two individuals were authorised to withdraw funds from the association’s account—an arrangement deemed vulnerable to abuse.

Authorities have recommended adopting stricter banking controls, including multiple signatories and transaction alerts.

Additional concerns were raised over the mismanagement of association assets, including two lorries allegedly operating without proper oversight.

Investigators warned that some drivers may have begun selling spare parts, casting doubt on reports of vehicle damage.

To improve accountability, security officials proposed installing GPS tracking systems in the vehicles, maintaining movement logbooks, and ensuring daily financial reporting.
Security authorities warned that failure to comply with audit directives would result in police action.

During the meeting, supporters of Omaya offered a subdued defence of his leadership. Omaya himself admitted to procedural shortcomings and requested more time to organise financial records, citing the illness of the association’s treasurer.

Banya, however, remained firm, stating that no elections would take place until all accountability issues are resolved.

“We are committed to restoring order and ensuring that market vendors elect capable and transparent leaders,” he said.