Bakoko concedes defeat, backs NRM flagbearer Tiyo in Ayivu East

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In a powerful display of grace and unity, former gender, labour and social development minister Zoe Bakoko Bakoru has conceded defeat in the just concluded NRM primaries for Ayivu East Constituency, offering her full support to the winner, Engineer Tiyo William Taylor Oda.

Engineer Tiyo, a former Arua District Engineer, was declared the official NRM flagbearer after securing 8,669 votes, edging out Bakoru, who got 6,425 votes and the incumbent MP Geoffrey Feta, who polled 6,222.

Other contestants included Anguyo Ahmed Musa with 386 votes, and Nyaku Ezaibo Ezra, who scored 75 votes.

Despite narrowly missing the win, Bakoko took the high road, addressing her supporters with warmth and humility.

“The people have spoken. I may not have won the flag, but I have won the hearts of many. I thank the people of Ayivu East for turning up in large numbers and believing in me,” she said.

With a voice filled with conviction, Bakoko emphasised her decision not to run as an independent candidate, stating that unity within the party was more important than personal ambition.

“I will not divide the party I love. I will not run as an independent. Instead, I will rally all my supporters to stand behind Engineer Tiyo. Let us walk this journey together as one NRM family,” Bakoko Said.

Although she raised concerns that some of her votes may not have been fully accounted for by the Arua City NRM election officials, she maintained that the integrity of the party must come first.

“I had reservations about how some votes were handled, but I have chosen peace over protest. This is about the people, not me,” she added.

Bakoko also extended an olive branch to her fellow candidates, calling on them to join her in supporting Engineer Tiyo as the party prepares for the 2026 general elections.

“I appeal to the four remaining candidates that this is our time to unite and build a stronger Ayivu East. We may have come from different camps, but we belong to the same cause,” she said.

Her remarks were met with applause from many, describing her as a pillar of maturity and statesmanship.

Engineer Tiyo, the man of the moment, thanked all candidates for their contributions and praised Bakoko for her statesmanship.

“This is not my victory alone, it is a victory for Ayivu East, for NRM, and for the spirit of unity. I welcome Mama Zoe’s support with deep respect,” he said.