A candidate's disqualification is fueling accusations of rigged election rules. The Electoral Commission annulled the nomination of former police officer Daniel Mulirire in Buyende District. Commission chairperson Simon Byabakama signed the December 23 decision, stating Mulirire failed to attach proof that he left public service when he filed his papers. This ruling, citing the Parliamentary Elections Act, overturned the local returning officer who had cleared him. Critics note a police resignation letter from April 2024 shows he quit over a year before nominations, making him a rival to incumbent Moses Magogo, who is married to Speaker Anita Among.
Legal experts and opposition figures call the move inconsistent. Former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga pointed out that Mulirire resigned 550 days before the deadline. Lawyer Jude Byamukama argued the law only applies to current civil servants, not former ones. Professor Venansius Baryamureeba said the commission should verify its status itself instead of demanding paperwork. This case follows other controversial disqualifications, like NUP candidate Resty Sarah Kyarimpa in Isingiro, which Bobi Wine and his party dispute as a pattern of blocking challengers. The commission maintains its decisions are lawful and based on deliberated complaints. Analysts say these disputes risk damaging public trust in the electoral process as 2026 approaches.
Legal experts and opposition figures call the move inconsistent. Former Speaker Rebecca Kadaga pointed out that Mulirire resigned 550 days before the deadline. Lawyer Jude Byamukama argued the law only applies to current civil servants, not former ones. Professor Venansius Baryamureeba said the commission should verify its status itself instead of demanding paperwork. This case follows other controversial disqualifications, like NUP candidate Resty Sarah Kyarimpa in Isingiro, which Bobi Wine and his party dispute as a pattern of blocking challengers. The commission maintains its decisions are lawful and based on deliberated complaints. Analysts say these disputes risk damaging public trust in the electoral process as 2026 approaches.
