A major setback has hit the National Unity Platform (NUP) party after the Electoral Commission (EC) disqualified its flag bearer for the Nakaseke North Constituency, Geoffrey Kayanja, sparking fresh debate about the nomination process and the fairness of the electoral system ahead of the 2025 General Parliamentary Elections.
Kayanja’s removal from the race is seen as a big loss for NUP leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, whose party has faced repeated hurdles during the campaign period.
According to the EC, Kayanja failed to meet one of the basic legal requirements needed for nomination, as six out of the ten registered voters who were listed as his supporters did not append their signatures.
The EC emphasized that its decision was based purely on the law and not on political considerations, insisting that all candidates, regardless of party affiliation, must strictly follow nomination guidelines.
However, NUP officials argue that this is part of a wider pattern in which opposition candidates are being blocked from participating in elections, accusing the EC of political bias and manipulation.
This is not an isolated case, as several other opposition candidates, most of them from NUP, have also been disqualified on different grounds, further fueling suspicion and anger within the party.
The trend has intensified tension, mistrust, and debate across the country, with NUP leaders saying the pattern points to deliberate efforts to weaken opposition strength ahead of the elections.
The EC maintains that all decisions are based on clear legal provisions and administrative checks, stating that nomination rules exist to protect the integrity of the electoral process and must be respected by all aspirants.
As Uganda moves closer to the 2025 polls slated on January 15, these disqualifications continue to shape the political landscape, leaving many to wonder what the future holds for the country’s democracy.
The disqualification of Kayanja and other opposition candidates has raised concerns about the fairness of the electoral process and the ability of opposition parties to participate freely and fairly in the upcoming elections.
The situation is being closely watched by Ugandans and the international community, who are calling for a transparent and credible electoral process.