The High Court in Kampala has nullified the election of Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola as Member of Parliament for Kawempe North and ordered the Electoral Commission to organize a fresh election.
In a ruling delivered on Monday, Justice Bernard Namanya found that the 2021 election was marred by illegal campaign activities on polling day and disruptions at more than 14 polling stations—irregularities the court said significantly affected the outcome.
The decision followed a successful election petition filed by Faridah Nambi, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate in the 2021 general elections. Nambi challenged Nalukoola’s victory, citing widespread electoral malpractice and non-compliance with the law.
In her petition, Nambi alleged that the election was tainted by voter bribery, ballot stuffing, and intimidation of her polling agents. The court agreed, ruling that the irregularities compromised the integrity of the process and warranted a fresh poll.
Luyimbazi, who was elected on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, had won the hotly contested race in 2021. His nullification is the latest in a string of legal setbacks for the opposition party, which has faced multiple challenges to its electoral victories.
The Electoral Commission is expected to set a date for the by-election in the coming weeks.
