By National Unity Platform (NUP) flagbearer for Busiro East, Mathias Walukagga, has petitioned the High Court seeking to overturn a decision by the Electoral Commission (EC) that disqualified him from the 2026 parliamentary race on grounds of alleged academic insufficiency.
Walukagga argues that he meets the required academic qualifications and that the Commission acted without jurisdiction in rejecting them. His legal team filed the petition shortly after the EC’s ruling, which was made on November 25 but delivered to him on December 9.
Speaking to journalists, his lawyer, Erias Nalukoola, said the EC’s conduct raised serious procedural concerns.
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“The circumstances of this case are not similar to others previously decided. We believe the judge assigned will follow the procedure and the provisions of the law,” Nalukoola said. “The law requires that this matter be heard expeditiously because time is limited. It is very unfortunate and regrettable that the Electoral Commission can make a decision on November 25 and deliver it on December 9. It leaves many unanswered questions.”
Nalukoola called on the EC leadership to review how such decisions are handled, describing the process as “shabby” and capable of undermining public confidence.
Walukagga expressed confidence that the High Court will overturn the EC decision.
“My lawyers would not have intervened in something unwinnable. The ruling of the Electoral Commission was illegal and biased,” he said. “We are going to get justice from the High Court.”
He defended the validity of his academic papers, arguing that his certificate remains recognized under the provisions governing alternative routes to university admission.
“You cannot say someone will be a graduate without a senior certificate. That does not operate at all,” Walukagga said. He added that political contests should be settled politically, not through what he termed negotiation and doubt.
His legal team also faulted the EC for releasing the decision late, saying it appeared to be a deliberate attempt to frustrate his candidacy. They have since followed up with the court registrar to secure a hearing date.
Under the law, the application must be disposed of promptly to ensure certainty ahead of the elections, including the preparation of ballot papers.
“We need clarity so voters know whether their MP-to-be is going to be on the ballot,” Nalukoola added.
The case is now awaiting allocation to a judge and scheduling for public hearing.
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