Like they often say “the process is just as important as the outcome…” the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flagbearer for the Njeru Municipality Member of Parliament seat, Badru Kabuye Mpoza, has rejected the results of the recent parliamentary elections, citing glaring evidence of irregularities, illegalities, and malpractices.
Kabuye, who garnered 13,003 votes, was reportedly defeated by Musanje Moses of the National Unity Platform (NUP), who garnered 18,665 votes and was declared the winner by the Buikwe District Returning Officer, Kagona Moses.
Allegations of Electoral Malpractices.
In a press conference held at the Jinja City based Safari Hotel, Kabuye expressed his disappointment and frustration with the electoral process, stating that the will of the people of Njeru Municipality had been circumvented by a handful of selfish and insecure politicians.
He accused a prominent politician of conspiring to frustrate his victory, alleging that the individual in question does not want any person to rise up from within the NRM party, thereby preventing President Yoweri Museveni from identifying rising stars.
It is worth noting that Kabuye’s claims of being targeted due to his potential to shine in politics resonate with the experiences of many individuals who have felt overshadowed in the past.
Interestingly, Kabuye’s accusations evoke the instinctual behavior of male ducks who often identify and eliminate younger rivals to maintain dominance.
Similarly, in the cutthroat world of Ugandan politics, it is not uncommon for established figures to feel threatened by emerging talents like Kabuye.
Commentators are asking an-all important question whether Kabuye’s ambition will be derailed by the politics of survival or he will successfully navigate the complex web of alliance and rivalries to achieve his goal.
Legal Action.
Kabuye announced that his team of lawyers is gathering evidence to challenge the election results in court. He expressed confidence that the High Court would overturn the election results in his favor, given the alleged irregularities in the electoral process. Kabuye’s determination to seek legal recourse has been echoed by his supporters, who are calling for a transparent and fair investigation into the electoral process.
Election Disputes and the Courts.
Election disputes are a common feature of Ugandan politics, and the courts have often been called upon to resolve these disputes.
The judiciary has a crucial role to play in ensuring that the electoral process is fair, transparent, and in accordance with the law. In recent years, the courts have demonstrated a willingness to intervene in electoral disputes, and their decisions have had significant implications for the outcome of elections.
Election Results.
The results of the Njeru Municipality parliamentary elections are as follows:
– Musanje Moses (NUP) – 18,665 votes
– Badru Kabuye Mpoza (NRM) – 13,003 votes
– Kalema Caesar (Independent) – 2,472 votes
– Ismail Kimwero Bumali (Independent) – 1,353 votes
– Lwanga Jimmy (Independent) – 1,201 votes
– Musoke Paul Sebulime (Independent) – 1,196 votes
– Njaka Hassan (Independent) – 719 votes
– Muyombya Richard (FDC) – 573 votes
– Magala Isaac Nelson (Independent) – 89 votes.
Uganda’s courts are bracing for a surge in election disputes with hundreds expected at the constituency level. This anticipation comes on the heels of the presidential and parliamentary election.
Implications.
The outcome of this dispute is likely to have significant implications for the Njeru Municipality and the wider political landscape. The case will be closely watched by political analysts, lawyers, and the general public, as it may set a precedent for future electoral disputes.
The courts will have to carefully consider the evidence presented and make a determination based on the law, ensuring that justice is served and the integrity of the electoral process is upheld.
In a related development, Faridah Nabatanzi the NUP candidate for the Buikwe District Woman MP seat is contesting the victory of Hon Diana Mutasingwa the incumbent and minister of State in the Office of the Vice President and NRM candidate.
Nabatanzi alleges that her victory was stolen through outright broad day robbery and has already instructed her lawyers to challenge the results.
In a phone interview, Nabatanzi stated that her lawyers are already working on the ground to dispute the election outcome, although she did not provide further details.
This development marks the second time Diana Mutasingwa faces legal challenges over her electoral victory. In 2021, her main challenger Resty Nakapachu a broadcaster in Jinja City threatened to contest the results.
However, the matter was settled out of court and in private after Diana Mutasingwa and her team extended an olive branch to Nakapachu.
Following this, Nakapachu opted not to run against Mutasingwa in the just concluded parliamentary elections.
