The corridors of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Electoral Disputes Tribunal were filled with a whirlwind of emotions as petitioners received the long-awaited rulings from the party’s July primaries. At Plot 10 Kyadondo in Kampala, jubilant celebrations erupted from candidates whose victories were upheld, while others faced the sting of disappointment as their petitions were dismissed.
Among the notable decisions, retired Lt Gen Henry Tumukunde was cleared to contest as the NRM flagbearer for Rukungiri Municipality. The tribunal dismissed a petition by Isaac Atukunda, who had alleged fraud, illegal nomination, and ineligibility due to Tumukunde’s past political affiliations. Atukunda, who finished third in the primaries, had questioned whether Tumukunde was a legitimate NRM member after contesting for president as an Independent in 2021. However, the tribunal ruled in Tumukunde’s favor, allowing him to proceed as the official NRM candidate.
In Hoima, the tribunal confirmed Harriet Wembabazi as the rightful flagbearer for the Woman MP seat, resolving confusion caused by multiple declarations. NRM’s Director of Legal Services, Mr. Enoch Barata, stated, “All those controversial issues have been resolved.”
The tribunal had received over 400 petitions following the primaries, with 46 rulings delivered on the day. While some petitioners received their decisions electronically, others collected physical copies at the party headquarters. A few petitioners chose to send lawyers to receive the rulings on their behalf, avoiding direct interaction with the media.
Despite the tribunal’s efforts to expedite the process, some petitioners expressed frustration over delays and lack of transparency. Mr. Barata acknowledged the concerns, stating, “There were some delays for people who came physically, and we regret that. But I have been assured that the speed will improve.”
The tribunal plans to continue delivering verdicts in batches, with periodic reports to be submitted to the party chairman and the Central Executive Committee (CEC) on the progress and outcomes of the petitions.