Masaka Court Adjourns Election Petition Between Namugga and Byuuma

The electoral contest for Mawogola South County has returned to the courtroom, with the Masaka High Court adjourning the petition filed by Gorreth Namugga against incumbent MP Dez Byuuma Oswaldo. The hearing has been rescheduled for September 28, following a request from Byuuma’s lawyers for additional time to examine the evidence presented by Namugga.

Namugga is challenging the declaration of NRM’s Byuuma as the winner, alleging that the election process was severely compromised by violence and irregularities. She claims that these disruptions led to the cancellation of voting in certain areas and prevented a fair electoral process.

Speaking outside the court, Namugga stated her belief that the election was not conducted fairly. She alleged that armed groups and gangs disrupted voting, leading to ballot boxes being taken and votes not being properly counted in some locations. This, she contends, made the eventual declaration of Byuuma as the winner surprising and questionable.

Namugga expressed suspicion of collusion between her opponent and Electoral Commission officials, which prompted her decision to seek legal recourse. She emphasized her commitment to the Ugandan legal system, choosing the courts over political channels for resolving the dispute.

Meanwhile, Dez Byuuma Oswaldo dismissed the allegations, expressing confidence in his legal representation. He stated that his lawyers are diligently responding to the petition’s claims and that the adjournment is a standard procedural step to allow thorough review of the extensive documents filed by Namugga. Byuuma remains optimistic about the outcome, asserting his legitimate victory in the election.

The proceedings are set to continue on September 28 at the Masaka High Court.

Source: Nile Post