Four Namutumba Candidates Challenge Parliamentary Wins in Court Petitions

Four candidates who lost in Namutumba District’s parliamentary elections have filed petitions at the High Court in Iganga. They challenge the results of the January 15 polls, citing issues like violence, bribery, vote rigging, and pre-ticked ballots.

Lands Minister Persis Namuganza, an independent who won Bukono Constituency, faces a petition from NRM’s Emmanuel Maganda Katoko. He accuses her of violence, rigging, and bribery. In Busiki North, NRM’s Isiko Asupasa Mpongo contests independent Yona Kayogera’s win over alleged manipulation.

NRM’s Mariam Naigaga is challenging independent Betty Nakisita Mpongo’s victory, claiming vote rigging. Incumbent Paul Akamba disputes independent Waiswa Azalwa Joel’s success in Busiki Constituency, pointing to widespread irregularities.

Namuganza dismissed the claims as politically motivated, blaming Speaker Anita Among and internal NRM struggles. She expressed confidence in retaining her seat, noting the President’s awareness of primary election issues. Nakisita and Kayogera also rejected the allegations, attributing their wins to voter support.

Residents express frustration over the disputes, linking them to rivalries between Speaker Among and First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga. Locals complain that political camps hinder development and question the legitimacy of some NRM candidacies amid prior controversies.

Concerns persist about tallying irregularities and security involvement. The High Court has not yet scheduled hearings.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)