Politics 13 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Judge Encourages Wakiso LCV Election Dispute Resolution Outside Court
High Court Judge George Okello has urged Wakiso District LCV chairperson Ian Kyeyune and his election rival, Nasif Najja, to pursue an out-of-court settlement, citing the significant financial and time costs of prolonged litigation. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/judge-urges-out-of-court-settlement-in-wakiso-chairperson-dispute-5631084
Justice George Okello of the High Court has called for reconciliation between Wakiso District LCV chairperson Ian Kyeyune and his election challenger, Nasif Najja, in an effort to resolve their ongoing electoral dispute.
During a scheduling conference for the election petition filed by Mr. Najja, Justice Okello emphasized the substantial financial and time burdens that protracted legal battles impose on both the candidates and the public. He advised the political rivals to prioritize the interests of the electorate over personal ambitions and suggested that the more senior candidate might consider making way for the younger generation.
“When you come to court, it is not for you to fight. The fight is now with the brains. It is not the physical one,” Justice Okello stated, highlighting the importance of civil political discourse and mutual respect.
He pointed out that leadership should be viewed as a service to the public rather than a means of personal fulfillment. While strongly advocating for dialogue and negotiation, Justice Okello assured both parties that if reconciliation efforts fail, the court is fully prepared to adjudicate the petition based on the presented evidence and legal arguments.
Both legal teams acknowledged the judge’s counsel. Mr. Samuel Muyizzi, representing Mr. Najja, indicated he would encourage his client to consider reconciliation if the petition is found to lack a viable legal basis. Similarly, Mr. John Musiime, representing the Electoral Commission, welcomed the suggestion for an amicable settlement.
Meanwhile, Justice Okello deferred a ruling on a preliminary objection by the Electoral Commission seeking to strike out over 35 affidavits from Mr. Najja’s case. He deemed it premature to rule before completing the scheduling conference, scheduling the ruling for the first day of the hearing, October 22.
The case involves Mr. Kyeyune, the Electoral Commission, and returning officer Tolbert Musinguzi as respondents.