Electoral Commission Double Standards Exposed | Walukagga Goes to Court

Ugandan musician-turned-politician Mathias Walukagga has found himself at the centre of a political storm this week after the Electoral Commission (EC) officially disqualified him from the Busiro East Parliamentary race. The Commission ruled that Walukagga submitted an expired academic certificate, making him ineligible to contest for the Member of Parliament seat under the requirements of the Parliamentary Elections Act.

According to the EC, the qualification document Walukagga presented had already lapsed by the time he sought nomination. EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama communicated that, under the law, candidates must present valid academic qualifications at the time of nomination, and failure to do so renders the nomination invalid. The announcement has triggered intense public debate, particularly in Wakiso District, where Walukagga enjoys significant support.

The decision has drawn strong criticism from the National Unity Platform (NUP), Walukagga’s political party. Party officials labelled the move inconsistent and alleged that the Commission applies different standards to different candidates. They argue that the EC has, in past cases, accepted similar documents from other aspirants, calling the ruling an act of selective enforcement. NUP leaders announced they would challenge the decision in the High Court, accusing the Commission of bias and overreach.

Walukagga’s legal team has echoed the party’s position, insisting that the Electoral Commission has no authority to cancel a nomination once it has been accepted. His lawyers maintain that, under Ugandan electoral law, only a competent court can reverse a nomination after it is formally received. They further stated that Walukagga will continue campaigning while the appeal process unfolds, signalling a looming legal showdown ahead of the 2026 general elections.

As proceedings move to court, the case has become one of the most closely watched political disputes of the week. It has raised broader questions about electoral transparency, the consistency of candidate vetting, and the conduct of the EC as the country prepares for a crucial election season. For now, both supporters and political observers await the court’s intervention to determine whether Walukagga will remain in the race for Busiro East.