The Electoral Commission (EC) of Uganda has disqualified Resty Sarah Kyarimpa, the National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate for the Isingiro District Woman Member of Parliament seat, ahead of the 2025 elections. The EC’s decision was based on the failure to meet the legal nomination requirements, specifically the number of valid supporters required for the nomination.
Isingiro MP Candidate Disqualified for Nomination Errors
According to the EC, one of the registered voters who supported Kyarimpa’s nomination appeared twice on her nomination forms, leaving her with fewer than the legally required ten distinct supporters from Isingiro District. Under Section 28(1)(c) of the Parliamentary Elections Act, a candidate must be endorsed by at least ten registered voters from the constituency.
The disqualification, signed by Electoral Commission chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, overruled an earlier clearance by the district returning officer, effectively barring Kyarimpa from running for the Isingiro Woman MP seat.
NUP Accuses EC of Bias and Political Interference
The NUP party has strongly rejected the ruling, accusing the Electoral Commission of bias and political interference. NUP claims that its candidate was offered money to withdraw from the race, which she declined, suggesting that the disqualification was a retaliatory move. The opposition also raised concerns about the commission’s computerized system, which they argue prevents one voter from supporting multiple candidates.
NUP leader Bobi Wine has condemned the decision, calling it part of a larger pattern of electoral malpractice aimed at eliminating opposition candidates. The EC has yet to respond to the bribery allegations but maintains that all nomination disputes are resolved in accordance with the law.
Tensions Ahead of Uganda’s 2026 General Elections
With Uganda’s general elections set for 2026, tensions are mounting as opposition parties continue to accuse the government and electoral institutions of favoring the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). The political landscape remains volatile, with many candidates dissatisfied with the commission’s rulings, and some may seek redress in court.