In the relentless heat of Dokolo, Mzee Aloysius Atanga, a 92-year-old citizen, embodied the essence of democratic participation by casting his vote in the district’s Woman parliamentary by-election. Supported by crutches, Atanga made his way to the Angwecibange Primary School “B” polling station, intent on voting for a candidate who would champion the cause of the vulnerable and elderly.

Upon arrival at around 12:30 pm, Atanga was met with assistance from a police constable, who facilitated his verification process. After marking his ballot in a private area, Atanga confidently dropped it into the ballot box, his action speaking volumes about his commitment to the electoral process.

Atanga’s presence at the polling station was a stark contrast to the many who did not turn out to vote across the 173 polling stations in Dokolo District. His determination to participate in the by-election underscored his hope for a representative who would bring about meaningful change for the district’s most vulnerable, particularly the elderly.

Following his vote, Atanga expressed his belief in his chosen candidate’s potential for effective service delivery in Dokolo. The by-election, which took place on March 21, unfolded against a backdrop of significant challenges in Dokolo, including high poverty and low literacy rates, as per the National Population and Housing Census of 2014.

The election day was largely peaceful, with only a few isolated incidents of voter bribery and arrests reported. Notably, the turnout was low, with some polling stations like the Dokolo Progressive Secondary School and Angwecibange Primary School “C” reporting minimal voter participation by midday.

Mzee Atanga’s vote serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of each individual’s participation in the democratic process, regardless of age or physical limitations