The Supreme Court has ordered a fresh hearing of Joseph Kazinda’s petition challenging the outcome of the 2026 parliamentary elections in his constituency.
The directive follows the court’s finding of procedural concerns in the initial handling of the case, which it said could have affected the fairness of the original judgment. However, the justices did not disclose details of the specific irregularities cited.
Kazinda, who has consistently raised concerns about the conduct of the election, had earlier lost his petition at the High Court after his claims of irregularities and mismanagement by the Electoral Commission were dismissed. He subsequently appealed to the Supreme Court.
Legal analysts say the decision to order a rehearing reflects the judiciary’s cautious approach in election-related disputes, particularly those that attract public interest.
“This rehearing provides an opportunity to address concerns comprehensively and reinforce public confidence in the judicial process,” said constitutional lawyer Dr Michael Byamukama.
Kazinda welcomed the ruling, pledging to fully cooperate with the court and urging the Electoral Commission to provide all relevant electoral records.
The Electoral Commission had not formally responded by press time, but is expected to defend the integrity of the election results during the fresh hearing.
A new hearing date is expected to be communicated in the coming weeks.
