The National Unity Platform (NUP) has condemned the High Court ruling that nullified the election of Kawempe North MP Hon. Erias Luyimbazi Nalukoola, framing it as part of a broader pattern of judicial persecution targeting opposition politicians.
On Monday, Justice Bernard Namanya of the High Court in Kampala ordered Nalukoola out of Parliament, ruling that his 2021 election was marred by illegal campaign activity on election day and disruptions in at least 14 polling stations—factors the court said materially affected the outcome.
While the court presented these findings as justification for nullification, NUP leaders say the ruling is yet another politically motivated blow to Uganda’s democratic process and a warning sign for the independence of the judiciary.
“The judiciary continues to be used to silence the voices of change,” NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya posted on X (formerly Twitter), calling the judgment “a day of infamy” and questioning the court’s priorities in selectively targeting opposition victories.
Nalukoola, a renowned human rights lawyer who has consistently challenged the status quo on issues such as police brutality and electoral fairness, said he would appeal the ruling.
“Hopefully the Court of Appeal will overturn this absurd decision,” he remarked, without providing further detail.
The seat, originally occupied by Muhammad Ssegirinya—another opposition figure who passed away—was reclaimed by Nalukoola in a by-election that saw overwhelming support from Kawempe North constituents. His removal, NUP argues, is not just about one seat but about undermining the will of voters in urban opposition strongholds.
Political analysts note a growing concern among opposition parties over the role of courts in post-election disputes. Several elected opposition leaders have faced prolonged legal battles, and some have lost their seats through rulings that critics say rely on inconsistent standards.
“The nullification of Nalukoola’s win is not happening in isolation,” a senior NUP official told Nile Post. “We are seeing a systematic effort to use legal technicalities to shrink opposition space and reverse democratic gains.”
The Court of Appeal is expected to take up the matter in the coming months. NUP leaders say they are preparing a strong legal case and will mobilize public support to defend what they call a stolen mandate.
“This is about more than Nalukoola,” Rubongoya added. “It’s about defending democracy from a creeping authoritarianism disguised in court judgments.”
