Africa-Press – Uganda. Presidential hopeful Elton Joseph Mabirizi’s nomination has been temporarily deferred after the Electoral Commission (EC) flagged an outstanding issue in his documents.
EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama did not specify the exact nature of the discrepancy.
“Upon reviewing his paperwork, we identified a matter that did not clearly comply with the legal requirements,” Justice Byabakama said.
According to Mabirizi, the issue concerns his Master’s degree, which is yet to be officially certified by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).
He has been given until 4:00 p.m. today or tomorrow to complete the certification process.
“We have instructed him to rectify the issue, and once it is resolved, he is free to return for nomination,” Justice Byabakama added.
Mabirizi, a former 2016 presidential candidate and the current Conservative Party flag bearer, arrived at the EC nomination center in Lweza, along Entebbe Road, around midday.
He was expected to be the second aspirant nominated today, following President Museveni, whom he aims to challenge in the 2026 polls.
“I have all the necessary documents. The problem lies with the Electoral Commission. When I contested previously, I did not hold a Master’s degree; now I do. They say the issue is with the degree certification, which is not yet completed. I will have it verified by the NCHE,” Mabirizi said.
Justice Byabakama also clarified that the EC has not rejected Mabirizi.
His paperwork contained a critical error that needs correction before he can be nominated.
“We have only guided him on the missing element in his nomination documents. If he addresses it, he is free to return and be officially nominated,” Justice Byabakama said.
He added that if Mabirizi completes the corrections by 4:00 p.m., he will be cleared; otherwise, he will be scheduled for a new slot tomorrow.
“I want to emphasise that no aspirant has been rejected. Rejection would mean they cannot return,” Justice Byabakama stressed.
Commenting on the day’s process, the EC chairperson said the nomination exercise was proceeding smoothly and according to schedule, noting that the first aspirant arrived at 10:00 a.m. with proper documentation.
“So far, on behalf of myself and the Commission, I can report that everything is running smoothly,” he said.
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