Politics 6 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Election Petitioners Struggle as MP-Elects Accused of Evading Service in Uganda
Petitioners challenging recent parliamentary election results across Uganda claim MP-elects are hiding to avoid service of petitions, complicating strict legal timelines. Courts have allowed alternative service methods amid rising disputes risking dismissal on technicalities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mps-elect-accused-of-dodging-service-as-election-petition-battles-intensify-5449206
A wave of election petitions is hitting Uganda’s courts, but petitioners face major hurdles in serving documents to MP-elects, who are accused of deliberately evading them.
Under Section 62 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, notices must be personally served within seven days of filing, or petitions risk dismissal regardless of merits. Legal experts highlight this as a vulnerability exploited in post-election battles.
In Gulu, Justice Phillip Odoki approved substituted service via Daily Monitor for petitioner Tonny Kitara against Norbert Mao, MP-elect for Pece-Laroo Division, after failed personal attempts.
Eastern Uganda’s Emmanuel Maganda searched over two weeks for Persis Namuganza in Bukono County without success, turning to newspaper ads. NUP’s Fred Nyanzi faced similar issues serving Madina Nsereko, who denied evasion and claimed she offered access to her home or office.
These issues echo 2021 complaints, like those against Kampala Central MP Muhammad Nsereko. Lawyer George Musisi urges quick applications for substituted service via media to avoid fatal delays.
Petitions must file within 30 days of result gazettement, with respondents answering in 10 days post-service. Analysts warn such tactics erode trust in Uganda’s electoral justice system.
Other challenges target figures like Minister Baryomunsi, Jim Muhwezi, and Kotido Woman MP results.
Source: Daily Monitor