Politics 10 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Masaka Woman MP Election Petition Ruling Slated for December 18
Masaka High Court has scheduled December 18 for a ruling on an election petition challenging the victory of Joan Namutaawe, the current Masaka District Woman MP. The petitioner, Joanita Nalule, has closed her case after presenting four witnesses. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/masaka-woman-mp-petition-ruling-set-for-december-18-5627126
The legal battle for the Masaka District Woman MP seat is nearing its conclusion as the High Court prepares to deliver a ruling on December 18. The petition, filed by Joanita Nalule, challenges the election victory of the incumbent, Joan Namutaawe.
During a court session presided over by Justice Rossette Comfort Kania, the petitioners concluded their presentation of evidence, having called four witnesses. Notably, they decided to withdraw three additional witnesses, stating satisfaction with the testimony provided by the respondent’s key witness.
Namutaawe, when testifying, asserted that she had suspended her campaign activities on the dates she allegedly made defamatory statements against Nalule due to illness, providing evidence of her admission to a private health facility in Masaka City. She also addressed concerns about contested polling station results from Kijonjo Church of Uganda and Buyaga Primary School, explaining they were received late at the tally center but were subsequently included in the final count leading to her declaration.
Lawyers for both sides presented their arguments, with the respondent’s counsel highlighting medical documentation to support Namutaawe’s claims of being bedridden and unable to make statements. They also presented evidence that the disputed polling station results were incorporated into the final tally and countered allegations of voter bribery for which, they argued, no proof was offered.
Following the presentation of evidence and closing arguments, the court has set deadlines for written submissions. Petitioners are to file by October 26, respondents by November 9, and rejoinders by November 23. The much-anticipated ruling will be delivered on December 18.
Lawyers for the petitioner expressed confidence that the evidence presented would favor their client, potentially leading to Nalule being declared the winner or an order for a by-election. The respondent’s legal team remains optimistic that the court will uphold Namutaawe’s victory based on the presented evidence.