The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Election Disputes Tribunal has issued 45 additional rulings in its ongoing handling of internal party election petitions. Some of the latest decisions consolidate multiple cases, according to tribunal chairperson John Musiime, who said a full list is available in both hard and soft copies to ensure accessibility and transparency.
Musiime emphasised that all rulings are based strictly on evidence and the law. While acknowledging that some decisions have taken longer than usual, he explained that NRM electoral regulations allow for delays where further investigations or complex legal reviews are necessary. These may include verifying tally sheets in the event of discrepancies or assessing candidates’ qualifications and party membership status.
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Addressing allegations of extortion, Musiime warned that no tribunal member is soliciting or accepting money to release or influence decisions. He stressed that official updates are only issued through recognized tribunal channels, including email and WhatsApp, and urged petitioners not to fall prey to individuals claiming they can manipulate outcomes for a fee.
The chairperson assured members that all cases will be concluded before the party’s nomination deadlines to ensure candidates are presented for all contested positions without unresolved disputes. He also dismissed concerns of external interference, saying tribunal members remain independent, committed, and guided solely by the party’s electoral rules.
Among the second batch of rulings were high-profile disputes, including Professor Mushemeza Elija’s challenge to former Tourism Minister Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu’s win as Sheema South flag bearer and Mukesh Shuklah Babubhai’s petition against Herbert Anderson Burora in Nakawa West over altered declaration forms. Other cases involved former Wakiso Deputy RDC Sheikh Kassim Kamugisha’s challenge to Andrew Aja Baryayanga’s Kabale Municipality win on grounds of sectarian politics and seven petitions against Nansana Municipality’s Idi Matovu led by Florence Kintu.
Party Director of Legal Affairs, Enoch Barata, who accompanied Musiime, echoed the warning against fraud, stressing that tribunal decisions “are not for sale.” He urged complainants to ignore anyone suggesting that favorable or expedited rulings can be bought.
Hearings for more than 178 LC5 and mayoral petitions are scheduled to begin next week, with preparations underway to manage the heavy caseload efficiently.
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