Masaka MP Election Petition: Court Admits Video Evidence in Nalubowa vs. Nameere Case

The Masaka City Woman MP election petition has seen a significant development as the High Court admitted video evidence presented by petitioner Rose Nalubowa of the National Unity Platform (NUP). The case challenges the declared victory of State Minister for Local Government, Justine Nameere.

Justice Bernard Namanya adjourned the hearing to September 30 and October 1, following a session where Ms. Nalubowa testified about her reasons for leaving the Electoral Commission (EC) tally center. She stated that she walked out after discovering a ballot box with a broken seal, a situation the Chief Magistrate had initially agreed not to proceed with.

During cross-examination, Ms. Nalubowa was questioned about allegations of falsified results, to which she indicated the respondents were best placed to answer. She also faced scrutiny for presenting partial recount results while contesting the overall legitimacy of the recount process.

The petitioner’s legal team presented two witnesses. The chief agent for the recount, Mr. Maurice Matovu, faced challenges in proving his official appointment. However, the second witness, Mr. Deogratious Bukenya, successfully submitted video recordings of the recount proceedings, despite objections from the defense.

Outside the court, Ms. Nalubowa expressed optimism, likening her case to a football match where she holds a strong lead. Her attorney, Mr. Samuel Muyizzi, hailed the admission of video footage as crucial for the judge’s understanding of the events. The defense, represented by Mr. Sam Ssekyewa, remained confident in their strategy to have the case dismissed, even with the new evidence.

Ms. Nalubowa initially claimed victory with a lead of over 5,000 votes. However, a subsequent recount reversed the results, declaring Ms. Nameere the winner by 2,326 votes.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)