Ezrah Kashumbusha.
KAMPALA, April 11, 2024 | Former aspirants of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) have petitioned court to nullify the recent elections, citing alleged irregularities including ballot stuffing and voting outside plenary sessions.
The petition, lodged at the High Court and presided over by Justice Emmanuel Baguma, was filed by Gilbert Agaba, Lauben Muhangi Bwengye, Josephine Lolem, and Salaama Adelaide Nakitende. The petitioners, represented by Lawyer Jude Byamukama, assert that the integrity of the election process was compromised.
According to the petitioners, the election held on September 29, 2022, was marred by irregularities that contravened both the EAC treaty elections treaty and the Constitution of Uganda. They argue that instances of ballot stuffing and voting outside plenary sessions undermined the democratic principles upon which the election process should have been based.
The respondents named in the petition, including the Attorney General, Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among, and other parliamentary officials, are expected to file their response submissions by May 2. Among the legal representatives for the respondents are Joseph Kyazze, Apollo Katumba, and Justin Semuyaba.
The petitioners contend that the election results, which were officially declared, do not accurately reflect the will of the electorate. They emphasize that adherence to the provisions outlined in section 50 of the EAC treaty is imperative for upholding the democratic process within the region.
In response to the allegations, the respondents argue that the election results were legitimate and complied with the relevant legal frameworks. They assert that the challenged election process was conducted in accordance with the provisions of the EAC treaty and contend that the results accurately represent the choices made by the electorate. The High Court is set to deliver its judgment on July 16, 2024.
