Uganda Law Society Demands EC Boss Byabakama’s Resignation
The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has demanded the resignation and prosecution of Electoral Commission (EC) chairperson Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, accusing him of presiding over elections marred by violence, heavy militarisation and widespread irregularities.
The call was made during the launch of the ULS 2026 general election observation report in Kampala. The lawyers argued that elections conducted under Justice Byabakama’s leadership have consistently fallen short of constitutional standards, citing violations of Articles 1 and 59 of the Constitution, which vest sovereignty in the people and guarantee citizens the right to vote.
ULS leaders pointed to irregularities in voter verification, interference by security agencies and administrative decisions that they say undermined the credibility of the electoral process.
Eastern Uganda ULS council representative Eddie Nangulu said the EC leadership had failed to deliver credible elections and should step down. He criticised the commission’s handling of candidate nominations, particularly cases where candidates were de-nominated close to polling day after investing resources in campaigns.
George Musisi, a lawyer and MP-elect for Kiira Municipality, said the ULS was challenging the EC’s powers to de-nominate candidates in electoral disputes, arguing that such matters should be handled by the High Court rather than through administrative decisions. He added that the report documented cases of prolonged detention, destruction of property and missing persons during and after the elections.
The ULS also called for investigations into the procurement and deployment of Biometric Voter Verification Kits (BVVKs), which reportedly malfunctioned at several polling stations despite costing taxpayers more than Shs150 billion. The kits were procured for use at over 50,700 polling stations across the country.
During the January 15 elections, some voters reported delays, manual verification and, in some instances, failure to vote due to equipment breakdowns.
ULS vice president Anthony Asiimwe criticised what he described as the State’s reliance on national security to justify restrictions on fundamental rights. He said national security should not be used to suspend rights without constitutional transparency, proportionality and accountability.
The lawyers also faulted the Judiciary for allegedly sidelining the ULS, citing the denial of a speaking slot to its leadership during the 2026 New Law Year celebrations.
In response, EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi said the commission acted within the law in organising the elections. He advised any aggrieved parties to follow established legal procedures to challenge the electoral process.
He maintained that the EC would continue to execute its constitutional mandate, including organising upcoming elections.
