Bugabula South Election Petition Ruling Set for November 13

Justice Aidah Nakiganda of the Jinja High Court has officially set November 13, 2026, as the date for delivering a judgment in the Bugabula South parliamentary election petition. The petition was filed by former candidate Sanon Dhizaala, who is challenging the election victory of Matayo Bazanya, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate.

The court reached this decision after concluding the hearing and cross-examination of witnesses involved in the case. Dhizaala, the sole witness cross-examined during the recent proceedings, faced questions from lawyers regarding assertions made in his affidavits.

Key among the issues discussed was Dhizaala’s claim that his polling agents at 82 of the constituency’s 200 polling stations were arrested, allegedly on Bazanya’s orders. Dhizaala stated that while he wasn’t personally present at these stations, he received this information from his agents, describing it as hearsay.

Following the cross-examination, legal teams were given deadlines to submit their written arguments. Dhizaala’s lawyers must file their submissions by September 25. Bazanya and the Electoral Commission have until October 1 to respond, with Dhizaala having until October 7 for a rejoinder. The judgment itself will be delivered electronically via the Electronic Court Information Management System.

Lawyers for Bazanya argued that Dhizaala’s presented evidence was insufficient to warrant overturning the election results. Bazanya echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the hearsay nature of Dhizaala’s evidence and stating his confidence in defending his victory.

Dhizaala, however, remains convinced that his evidence is substantial and will be duly considered by the judge, expressing optimism that the court’s decision will reflect the choice made by the people of Bugabula for their Member of Parliament.

The Bugabula South petition is one of several election disputes being handled by the Jinja High Court following the 2026 General Election.

Source: Nile Post