Masaka Woman MP Namutaawe Claims Election Petition Hampers Parliamentary Duties

Masaka District Woman Member of Parliament, Joan Namutaawe, has expressed concern that a legal challenge to her election victory is interfering with her work in Parliament. The petition was filed by her former rival, Joanita Nalule, who is contesting the results of the January 2026 parliamentary elections.

Namutaawe, representing the National Unity Platform (NUP), appeared in court recently for the mention of the case. She assured her supporters that she is confident in overcoming the petition, drawing parallels to a previous successful defense of her seat in 2021.

“This case is affecting me in my work as a Member of Parliament, but I believe it will eventually come to an end and everything will be resolved well,” Namutaawe stated, expressing faith in the judiciary.

On the other hand, NRM candidate Joanita Nalule claims the election was marred by significant irregularities. She alleges issues with vote accounting at certain polling stations and instances of intimidation against her supporters, which she believes influenced the outcome.

Nalule further claims that her initial lead during the vote tallying process reversed unexpectedly. “At around 9:00am, I was still leading, but by 10:00am the results had changed. I believe different groups intervened to ensure that Namutaawe went through,” Nalule alleged.

Nalule is seeking a court determination of the disputed results, aiming to be declared the rightful winner or, alternatively, a fresh election if the irregularities are found to have impacted the final tally.

The petition is currently before the courts, which will weigh the evidence presented by both Namutaawe and Nalule before reaching a decision.

Source: Nile Post