FDC to Challenge Kawempe By-Election Results Amid Allegations of Irregularities
The FDC Party in Uganda plans to legally contest the Kawempe by-election results, alleging irregularities and violence during the polls. With NUP’s Luyimbazi winning, FDC’s Mukiibi received only 239 votes. Party President Amuriat claims the results are not reflective of actual support. The NRM also expressed concerns over electoral integrity, calling for a forensic audit.
The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Party in Uganda has announced its intention to contest the results of the recent Kawempe by-election in court. The by-election saw the National Unity Platform’s candidate, Naukoola Luyimbazi, emerge victorious with 17,764 votes, while FDC’s candidate, Sadat Mukiibi, received only 239 votes. FDC cites alleged electoral irregularities and instances of violence that occurred during the election process, including assaults on journalists by security forces.
On Tuesday, FDC Party President Patrick Oboi Amuriat asserted that the results did not accurately reflect the party’s support within the constituency. He firmly stated, “The results can never be a reflection of our strength in the division.” Moving forward, the FDC plans to seek financial restitution for costs incurred during the by-election and believes the Electoral Commission failed to uphold its responsibilities.
The Nile Post reported that the by-election results were problematic, with at least 15 polling stations excluded from the final tally, one being the polling station where Mukiibi voted. The FDC attributes its poor showing to the heavy security presence that intimidated its supporters and has called for a demand for compensation for the journalists who suffered injuries or had their equipment confiscated.
In a parallel response, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) criticized the election outcome and called for a forensic audit, expressing concerns about the fairness of the election process. NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong commented on NBS Morning Breeze, expressing dissatisfaction with the results, stating, “We have lost elections before, but there is something a little deeper. We are calling for a forensic audit. Everyone must be investigated. NUP, NRM, security forces and the Electoral Commission.”
Despite NRM’s claims, they have yet to act legally against the results, as they had initially indicated last week.
The FDC’s decision to challenge the Kawempe by-election results highlights significant concerns about electoral integrity and security during the polls. Allegations of violence and the exclusion of polling station results underscore the need for a thorough investigation. Additionally, the National Resistance Movement’s call for a forensic audit suggests widespread dissatisfaction with the electoral process. These developments indicate a critical moment in Ugandan politics, where both opposition and ruling parties seek accountability and redress regarding the by-election outcomes.
Original Source: eastleighvoice.co.ke
