Africa-Press – Uganda. Lawyers representing NRM’s Faridah Nambi Kigongo have delivered their final submissions in a petition challenging the victory of NUP’s Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola in the Kawempe North by-election, accusing the Electoral Commission of gross misconduct and collusion.
During the hearing on Monday, Nambi’s legal team told court that the Commission “violated electoral laws” and “suffocated the will of 16,640 voters” by declaring Nalukoola the winner without addressing irregularities in 14 polling stations.
“If this election is not annulled, the court will have buried the voices of thousands of Kawempe residents whose votes were never counted,” Nambi’s lawyers said.
Her lawyer, Ahmed Kalule, accused the Electoral Commission of failing to ensure a free and fair election.
“The Commission should have ordered a re-run in the 14 polling stations where serious irregularities were reported,” Kalule said.
“By ignoring these issues, they effectively disenfranchised 16,640 voters.”
Kalule further alleged that Nalukoola’s agents were responsible for bribery and voter obstruction on polling day—grounds he believes are sufficient for the court to nullify the results.
“There is overwhelming evidence pointing to voter bribery and obstruction orchestrated by Nalukoola’s agents,” he added.
“This should not be overlooked.” Said Kigula Muhamood Mahiri, another lawyer on Nambi’s team.
Court is expected to hear final submissions from the Electoral Commission and MP Nalukoola tomorrow.
Nambi’s petition has stirred political tension in Kawempe North, with her supporters calling for what they term as “electoral justice.” Nalukoola and the Electoral Commission have so far maintained that the election was conducted in line with the law.
The court’s ruling is expected to set a significant precedent in electoral petition cases ahead of future by-elections.
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