The upcoming National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries in Bugiri District have been thrown into disarray following a petition challenging the eligibility of incumbent LC5 Chairperson, Kasajja Davidson Mulumba, to contest for the position.
A local voter, identified as Mr. Kyotaite Muhussein, through his legal representatives, Bumpenje & Co. Advocates, has formally petitioned the NRM Electoral Commission chairperson, seeking to prevent Mulumba’s nomination.
The crux of the petition revolves around alleged discrepancies in Mulumba’s academic qualifications, specifically his fulfillment of the minimum educational requirements stipulated by Ugandan law for the position of District Chairperson.
According to the petition, which was delivered to the NRM chairperson, “We act for and on behalf of Mr. Kyotaite Muhussein and whose instructions we address you as hereunder.”
The document then directly quotes Section 123(d) of the Local Governments Act Cap 243, which states: “a person shall not qualify for elections as chairperson of district or city unless that person has completed a minimum education of advanced level standard or its equivalents.”
Bumpenje & Co. Advocates argue that a thorough review of Mulumba’s academic credentials reveals a failure to meet this crucial requirement.
“Upon review of the academic documents for Mr. Kasajja Davidson Mulumba Chairperson LC5 Bugiri District, he does not meet the minimum academic requirements as stipulated under the relevant laws for the position of Chairperson LC5,” the petition alleges.
The timing of the petition is significant, coinciding with the NRM Electoral Commission’s announcement on June 2nd, 2025, inviting aspiring candidates to collect nomination forms for the NRM primaries, covering both parliamentary and LC5 chairperson positions.
The lawyers are explicitly urging the NRM Electoral Commission to exercise caution. “We kindly request that, in case he contests in the forthcoming NRM primaries, NRM Electoral Commission should not nominate Kasajja Davidson Mulumba until review of this matter and ensure that only qualified candidates who meet the statutory requirements are accepted for nomination.”
The petition concludes with a stern warning, escalating the stakes considerably. “Take notice that should the commission proceed to nominate him: the decision will be vigorously contested in court at the expense of the commission and the candidate. Expect no further notice.”
This underscores the petitioner’s determination to pursue legal action should their concerns regarding Mulumba’s qualifications be ignored.
This development raises serious questions about the vetting process for NRM candidates and the party’s commitment to upholding the stipulated legal requirements for holding public office.
The NRM Electoral Commission now faces the delicate task of thoroughly investigating the allegations presented in the petition, potentially impacting the political landscape of Bugiri district and the credibility of the NRM primaries.
The outcome of this review will undoubtedly be closely watched by both supporters and critics of the incumbent chairperson, as well as those interested in ensuring transparent and legally sound electoral processes within the party.
The looming threat of legal action adds further pressure on the commission to act decisively and fairly.
