By The opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has announced plans to take legal action against the Electoral Commission (EC), citing alleged irregularities in the recently concluded Kawempe North by-election.
Speaking at a press conference in Kampala, FDC President Patrick Oboi Amuriat accused the electoral body of failing to ensure a free and fair electoral process. He alleged that the election was marred by violence and intimidation, which he claims suppressed voter turnout and negatively impacted FDC’s performance.
The by-election, held to fill the seat left vacant by the late Muhammad Ssegirinya, was won by National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Elias Naukoola Luyimbazi, who secured 17,764 votes. FDC’s candidate, musician-turned-politician Sadat Mukiibi, popularly known as Kalifah Aganaga, received only 239 votes.
“We will sue the Electoral Commission because they failed to take responsibility. After witnessing all the irregularities in Kawempe North, it was within their power to stop the election,” Amuriat told reporters on Tuesday.
He further alleged that ballot boxes at over 15 polling stations were destroyed, resulting in the loss of a significant number of votes.
“Despite these serious irregularities, the election was allowed to proceed, and results were declared. This is unacceptable,” he added.
Condemnation of Electoral Violence
The FDC also strongly condemned incidents of violence witnessed during the election. Reports indicate that several individuals, including journalists, were assaulted by security personnel, while election materials were allegedly vandalized at various polling stations.
Amuriat decried the attacks on journalists, emphasizing their critical role in democracy and governance.
“Violence against journalists is unacceptable and a direct threat to press freedom. The media plays a crucial role in holding leaders accountable and informing the public. Journalists must be able to perform their duties without fear of intimidation or harm,” he stated, calling for compensation for those injured or whose equipment was confiscated.
NRM Also Raises Concerns
The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), led by President Yoweri Museveni, has also voiced concerns about the by-election, alleging that the opposition engaged in vote rigging and intimidation.
In response to reports of electoral violence, Museveni has ordered an investigation into the events surrounding the March 13 vote. Meanwhile, the NRM has also vowed to challenge the election outcome in court.
With legal battles looming, the fallout from the Kawempe North by-election is set to intensify, raising further questions about Uganda’s electoral integrity.
