Politics 20 October 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Masaka High Court Reassigns Election Petitions Due to Judge's Illness
Masaka High Court has reassigned four election petitions to different judges following the illness of Justice Thomas Ochaya, who was handling these cases. This move aims to prevent further delays in the ongoing legal challenges. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/masaka-high-court-reallocates-four-election-petitions-as-justice-ochaya-falls-ill-5639602
The Masaka High Court Circuit is experiencing a shift in its judicial assignments for election petitions due to the unexpected illness of Justice Thomas Ochaya. This has led to a reallocation of four significant cases to other judges to ensure the judicial process continues without undue interruption.
Ms. Roy Kalungi, the Deputy Registrar of Masaka High Court, confirmed the changes, stating that Justice Ochaya’s ailment necessitated the adjournment of proceedings and the reassignment of his caseload. This administrative adjustment is crucial, especially as the Masaka Circuit has received the largest number of election petitions nationwide, totaling 20.
Among the reallocated cases, the petition filed by National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Geoffrey Lutaaya challenging the election of Ismael Othman Kaka Lubega in Kakuuto County has been assigned to Justice Joyce Kavuma. Lutaaya alleges irregularities and seeks to be declared the rightful winner. Similarly, NUP’s Gorreth Namugga, who is contesting the election of Dez Oswald Byuuma in Mawogola County South, will have her case heard by Justice Rosette Comfort Kania.
In Sembabule District, the petition filed by Mary Begumisa against Florence Nambaziira for the Woman Member of Parliament seat will now be presided over by Justice Christine Oyo Okot. Additionally, the legal challenge brought by Jet Tumwebaze against the victory of Mawogola North MP Godfrey Aine Kaguta Sodo has been reassigned to Justice Bernard Namanya, with a hearing date yet to be set.
Both Namugga and Lutaaya have expressed their appreciation for the judiciary’s swift action in reassigning the cases, emphasizing the importance of timely hearings. Despite the reallocation, the Masaka High Court Circuit continues to manage a substantial caseload, with 15 active petitions remaining after some have been dismissed or withdrawn.
This redistribution of cases underscores the judiciary’s commitment to efficiently handling electoral disputes, even amidst unforeseen circumstances. The affected parties are awaiting the new hearing dates as the legal battles unfold.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)