Politics 12 October 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Kananura Withdraws Election Petition Against MP Musisi, Cites Lawyer's Lapses
Former NRM parliamentary candidate Daniel Kananura has sought to withdraw his election petition against Kira Municipality MP George Musisi, attributing the decision to his lawyers' alleged failure to adequately present his case. The court is set to rule on whether Kananura must bear the legal costs of the respondents. Source: https://observer.ug/news/nrms-kananura-blames-lawyers-as-he-withdraws-election-petition-against-mp-musisi
Daniel Kananura, who previously vied for the parliamentary seat in Kira Municipality under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket, has formally applied to withdraw his election petition. The petition, filed on March 31, 2026, challenged the victory of National Unity Platform (NUP) Member of Parliament, George Musisi, in the January 15 elections.
Kananura’s decision comes after legal proceedings had advanced, with both petitioner and respondent having undergone cross-examination and the Electoral Commission’s witness expected to testify. However, Kananura has cited alleged shortcomings by his legal team as the primary reason for his withdrawal.
Appearing before High Court judge George Okello, Kananura’s lawyers informed the court of his intention to discontinue the case. While Musisi and the Electoral Commission did not object to the withdrawal itself, they strongly contested Kananura’s plea to withdraw the petition without incurring the costs associated with the legal defense.
Musisi’s lawyer, Erias Luyimbaazi Nalukoola, argued that his client had expended significant time and resources defending the petition and should not be burdened with these expenses. Similarly, the Electoral Commission’s lawyer, Patrick Wetaka, referenced Section 84 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, which stipulates that a petitioner seeking withdrawal is typically liable for the respondent’s costs.
Outside the court, Kananura expressed frustration with the lawyers who prepared his petition, claiming they omitted critical evidence and arguments, thereby weakening the case. He also noted that attempts to supplement his case with additional affidavits were unsuccessful, leaving him unable to proceed as planned.
Justice Okello has adjourned the matter to October 14 to deliver a ruling on the contentious issue of legal costs. The final decision on whether Kananura must pay the costs incurred by Musisi and the Electoral Commission will be determined by the court.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)