The High Court in Masindi has dismissed two election petitions that challenged the victories of Buruli County MP Aled Ronald Akugizibwe and Kibanda South MP Jacob Karubanga in the 2026 elections. The ruling brings an end to months of legal uncertainty and confirms both legislators as duly elected members of Parliament.
Petition Against Akugizibwe Dismissed
The petition against Akugizibwe was filed by Julius Mugisa, who contested for the Buruli County seat. Mugisa alleged that the election was marred by voter bribery, intimidation, and falsification of results, among other electoral offences. He argued that these irregularities undermined the credibility of the vote and should lead to the annulment of Akugizibwe's victory. However, after reviewing the evidence, the court found no sufficient grounds to overturn the election result.
In delivering the judgment, the presiding judge stated that the petitioner failed to provide convincing proof that the alleged irregularities were widespread enough to affect the outcome of the election. The court emphasized that election results are presumed valid unless there is clear and compelling evidence to the contrary. Consequently, the petition was dismissed with costs, meaning Mugisa may be required to cover the legal expenses of the respondent.
Karubanga's Victory Also Upheld
In a related ruling, the same court dismissed a petition that had been filed against Kibanda South MP Jacob Karubanga. The details of that petition were not immediately available, but the court's decision confirms Karubanga's win. The dismissal of both petitions provides clarity for the constituents of Buruli County and Kibanda South, who can now be assured of their representation in Parliament.
The rulings were welcomed by supporters of the two MPs, who gathered outside the court to celebrate. Akugizibwe and Karubanga expressed gratitude to the judiciary for upholding the will of the people. They called for unity and pledged to focus on delivering development to their constituencies.
Legal Implications and Reactions
Legal analysts note that the decisions underscore the high threshold for overturning election results in Uganda. Petitioners must present robust evidence to convince the court that irregularities substantially affected the electoral process. This ruling is consistent with previous cases where courts have been reluctant to annul elections unless the irregularities are proven to have materially influenced the outcome.
Mugisa, the petitioner in the Buruli County case, has not yet indicated whether he will appeal the decision. His lawyers said they would review the judgment before deciding on the next course of action. The dismissal of the petitions means that Akugizibwe and Karubanga can now fully assume their duties as Members of Parliament without the shadow of legal challenges hanging over them.
The Masindi High Court's decisions are seen as a boost for the ruling party and a reaffirmation of the integrity of the electoral process in the region. However, they also highlight the need for continued vigilance to ensure that elections are free and fair, and that any grievances are addressed through the proper legal channels.
