EC nullifies NRM candidate in Masaka LC elections

What the report says

The Independent Uganda, citing URN, reported that the Electoral Commission has cancelled the nomination of Augustine Mukasa Luswata, the National Resistance Movement candidate for Njumaga Cell chairperson in Katwadde Ward, Masaka City. The decision, communicated by Masaka City Returning Officer Joloba Hydary, said Luswata had been nominated in error because he remained an employee of the Uganda Prisons Service at Masaka Main Prison.

According to the report, the commission found the nomination irregular on the grounds that serving public officers must leave public service before seeking elective political office. The challenge was brought by incumbent Njumaga Cell Chairperson Pellegrino Bikanyulo, who is standing for re-election on the National Unity Platform ticket. With Luswata removed from the contest, Bikanyulo is the only candidate in that race. Luswata reportedly declined to comment.

The article also noted a separate eligibility dispute in Mutuba-Musisi Gardens Cell in Katwe Ward. NUP candidate Mathias Bwanika has petitioned the Electoral Commission to disqualify NRM candidate Deogratias Mulindwa, arguing that Mulindwa already serves as Older Persons’ Councilor on the Nyendo-Mukungwe Division Council and cannot simultaneously seek the village chairperson post. Bwanika cited the Local Governments Act and attached an oath of allegiance dated May 19, 2026, as part of his petition.

Mulindwa told the publisher he believed he could serve in both roles and said residents had encouraged him to contest. Hydary confirmed receipt of the petition and said the commission would review it before the end of the week. The report said Masaka’s women and village council elections, scheduled for July 23 and 28 respectively, drew hundreds of candidates, with many women council contenders and a smaller number of LC1 chairperson candidates running unopposed.