Gender minister Betty Amongi hits back at health minister Ruth Aceng over witchcraft claims in Lira election row
In a strongly worded statement, Amongi dismissed claims attributed to Aceng that she relied on witchcraft during the election, describing the remarks as “reckless” and “propaganda.”
A fresh political row has erupted between Gender Minister Betty Amongi and Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng following controversial remarks linked to the Lira City Woman MP elections.
In a strongly worded statement, Amongi dismissed claims attributed to Aceng that she relied on witchcraft during the election, describing the remarks as “reckless” and “propaganda.”
“My attention has been drawn to a reckless statement… claiming that she won the election because of prayers, while I used witchcraft,” Amongi said, insisting that she is a devoted Catholic who does not believe in such practices.
The comments reportedly stem from remarks made by Aceng during a birthday dinner for Muhoozi Kainerugaba, where she attributed her electoral victory to divine intervention.
Amongi criticised the Health Minister for what she described as lowering the standard of national discourse.
“While serious leaders across the world are discussing artificial intelligence and modern policy frameworks, the likes of Dr. Aceng are dragging national debate into superstition and backwardness,” she said.
Beyond the remarks, Amongi also raised fresh allegations about the conduct of the election, claiming that Aceng had previously acknowledged the role of security agencies in her victory.
She alleged that during a public event in Lira earlier this month, Aceng credited elements within the military and other state institutions for influencing the ooutcomel, claims that could not be independently verified.
Amongi said she had deliberately remained silent after the election to preserve peace and stability, but warned that her restraint should not be interpreted as acceptance of the results.
“I chose the path of restraint to safeguard unity and social cohesion, but let no one mistake restraint for weakness,” she stated.
The Gender Minister further argued that the election was not a fair contest between individuals, but rather a broader political effort aimed at blocking her candidacy.
She maintained that despite the outcome, she continues to enjoy the support of the people of Lira City.
The dispute highlights growing tensions within Uganda’s political landscape, particularly in the Lango sub-region, where the contested Woman MP seat has drawn significant attention.
By press time, Aceng had not publicly responded to Amongi’s latest statement.
