The High Court in Masaka has registered and commenced hearings for at least 15 election petitions arising from the recently concluded parliamentary elections across the Greater Masaka sub-region, with candidates challenging results over alleged irregularities.
The cases span the districts of Bukomansimbi, Kalungu, Sembabule, Masaka, Rakai, Kyotera, and Lwengo, highlighting growing dissatisfaction among contestants regarding the electoral process.
Bukomansimbi District
In Bukomansimbi North Constituency, Muhammad Katerega (JEEMA) has petitioned the court seeking to overturn the victory of Salim Kiseka (NRM).
In the Woman MP race, Veronica Nanyondo (NUP) is challenging the election of Ruth Katushabe (NRM), citing alleged electoral malpractices.
Kalungu District
In Kalungu West, independent candidate Ssemakula Ismael has filed a petition contesting the victory of Joseph Gonzaga Ssewungu.
Meanwhile, in the Woman MP race, State Minister for Water and Environment Aisha Ssekindi (Independent) is facing a petition from Hellen Nakeeya (NRM).
Sembabule District
In Mawogola South, Gorreth Namugga (NUP) has petitioned against Oswald Dez Byuma (NRM), accusing him of electoral irregularities.
In Mawogola North, Jet Tumwebaze (Independent) is challenging the victory of Sodo Aine Kaguta (NRM), the President’s brother.
For the Woman MP seat, Mary Begumisa (Independent) has filed a petition against Florence Nambaziira (NRM).
Masaka City
In Kimanya-Kabonera Division, Patrick Kuteesa (NUP) is facing a petition from Robert Asiimwe (NRM).
The Woman MP race is also contested, with Rose Nalubowa (NUP) challenging Justine Nameere (NRM).
In Masaka District, Joan Namutaawe (NUP) is facing a legal challenge from Joanita Nalule (NRM).
Rakai District
In Buyamba Constituency, Amos Madela (Independent) has petitioned against Javira Ssemwanga (NRM).
The Woman MP seat is also under dispute, with Grace Nalubega (NUP) challenging Juliet Ssuubi Kinyamatama (NRM).
Kyotera District
In Kakuuto Constituency, Geoffrey Lutaaya (NUP) has filed a petition against Ismael Kaka Lubega.
Meanwhile, the Woman MP seat has drawn a petition from Scola Kalibbala (NRM), who is challenging Fortunate Rose Nantongo (NUP).
Lwengo District
In Lwengo, Sarah Nkonge (Independent) has petitioned the court against Cissy Namujju (NRM), contesting the election results.
Most petitioners accuse their opponents of electoral offenses, including voter bribery, intimidation, ballot stuffing, and non-compliance with electoral laws.
The High Court is expected to scrutinize evidence presented by both sides before delivering rulings that could either uphold or nullify the election results.
This wave of petitions signals heightened political tension in the Greater Masaka region and could significantly reshape parliamentary representation if any of the results are overturned.