Politics 16 July 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Judiciary Finalizes Preparations for 2026 Election Petition Hearings
Uganda's Judiciary is nearing completion of administrative arrangements to commence hearings for 118 election petitions stemming from the 2026 parliamentary and local government elections. Chief Registrar Agnes Alum assured the public that all efforts are being made to adhere to strict legal timelines for resolving these disputes. Source: https://observer.ug/news/judiciary-to-begin-hearing-2026-election-petitions
The wheels of justice are set to turn on the numerous election disputes that have arisen from Uganda’s 2026 polls. The Judiciary has announced that it is in the final stages of preparing to hear the 118 petitions filed against parliamentary and local government election outcomes, a process that must be concluded within constitutionally mandated timeframes.
Chief Registrar Agnes Alum confirmed that judges across various High Court circuits are finalizing administrative procedures, including the allocation of cases, before official hearing schedules are released. This announcement comes amid significant public interest and the inherent time-sensitive nature of election petitions, which require swift resolution to avoid prolonged uncertainty regarding elected positions.
The extensive list of petitioners includes several high-profile figures. Among them, Mawokota North MP Hilderman Kiyaga is challenging the election of Amelia Kyambadde. In Mbarara, Mwesigwa Rukaari is contesting Christopher Bakashaba’s victory, while former Tororo Woman MP Sarah Opendi has petitioned against Angella Akoth.
Other notable cases involve challenges in Kayunga, Masaka, and Bukomansimbi districts, with the Electoral Commission listed as a respondent in several instances. The Masaka and Moroto High Court circuits, along with Iganga and Lira circuits, are handling a substantial number of these election-related cases.
Beyond election disputes, Alum also provided updates on the Judiciary’s commitment to internal accountability, highlighting intensified investigations into corruption and misconduct among judicial officers. She urged the public to provide credible evidence for such allegations. Furthermore, she addressed concerns regarding delays in bail applications and case processing, attributing them to heavy workloads and case management challenges, and outlined ongoing judicial reforms including the expansion of the Electronic Court Case Management Information System (ECCMIS) and increased use of virtual hearings.
The Judiciary is also working on new media guidelines and a journalist accreditation program to foster better cooperation and accurate reporting of court proceedings. Meanwhile, the annual court vacations are scheduled, though registries will remain open to accept new filings.
These preparations aim to ensure that the electoral challenges are addressed efficiently and transparently, upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)