A Kampala-based law firm, Ochieng Associated Advocates & Solicitors, has petitioned the Electoral Commission (EC) seeking access to the academic documents and nomination papers of Robert Mugabe, who is contesting for the Kitagwenda County Parliamentary Seat.
In a letter dated October 24, 2025, addressed to the EC Secretary, the firm said it was acting on behalf of Baguma Ronald, who is questioning the authenticity of Mugabe’s academic qualifications.
“We act for and on behalf of Baguma Ronald herein referred to as Our Client upon whose instructions we address you as hereunder,” the letter reads in part.
Baguma claims that Mugabe may not have met the academic qualifications required under Ugandan law to stand for Parliament. The petition cites Article 80(1)(c) of the Constitution and Sections 4(1)(c) and 30(c) of the Parliamentary Elections Act, which prescribe the minimum education requirements for parliamentary candidates.
“Our Client is not convinced that the said candidate possesses the requisite papers and/or qualifications to be nominated for the post of a Member of Parliament,” the letter adds.
The law firm has requested the EC to provide photocopies of all academic and nomination documents submitted by Mugabe to verify his eligibility.
“The purpose hereof is to request your office to avail Our Client with photocopies of all documents previously submitted by Mr. Mugabe Robert to your office to enable us determine the next course,” the firm wrote.
The petition has triggered mixed reactions among Mugabe’s supporters, with some interpreting it as a political move intended to frustrate his campaign.
The EC’s security registry stamp shows that the petition was officially received on October 28, 2025.
When contacted for comment, Electoral Commission spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi did not confirm whether he had seen the petition but said such complaints are normal during the election cycle.
“It would not be out of the ordinary or special. It would not be unique,” Mucunguzi said. “Filing complaints on any matter arising out of the electoral process, including nominations, is perfectly covered in the law.”