The Electoral Commission (EC) has disqualified National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Geofrey Kayanja from the Nakaseke North Member of Parliament race, dealing a major setback to the opposition and effectively removing a key challenger to NRM’s Ahebwa Wilber ahead of the 2025 general elections.
The Commission says Kayanja failed to meet the legal nomination requirements after falling short of the mandatory number of registered voters needed to endorse his candidature.
In a statement dated December 23, 2025, and signed by EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, the Commission revealed that six out of the ten listed supporters on Kayanja’s nomination papers did not sign as required by law. This omission, the EC said, rendered the nomination invalid.
During a formal hearing, Kayanja reportedly admitted to the irregularities, prompting the Commission to rule that he did not meet the statutory requirement of valid endorsements from at least ten registered voters within the constituency.
“The Commission resolved that Candidate Kayanja Geofrey was not eligible for nomination to contest for the said elective office since he did not comply with the law,” the statement reads.
As a result, the EC overturned the earlier decision by the Nakaseke District Returning Officer, who had initially cleared Kayanja, and formally disqualified him from the race.Kayanja’s disqualification adds to a growing list of opposition candidates especially from NUPblocked from contesting over alleged nomination flaws.
Party leaders have accused the EC of selective enforcement, bias, and political manipulation aimed at weakening opposition participation.Several other hopefuls have also been affected including :
Mathias Walukagga (Busiro East, NUP) — disqualified over academic qualifications after submitting an expired Mature Age certificate from IUIU.
Sarah Kyarimpa (Isingiro Woman MP, NUP) — disqualified after one supporter allegedly signed twice.
Christopher Ategeka (Buyanja County, NUP) — removed under controversial circumstances, with reports claiming he refused a bribe to step down.
Shalif Ntanda (Isingiro North, NUP) — disqualified after two listed supporters denied endorsing him.
Best Arnold Ankunda (PFF) — informed that one seconder denied backing his nomination.
Daniel Mulirire (Independent, Budiope East) — disqualified for failing to attach proof of resignation from public service.
The Electoral Commission insists all disqualifications were based strictly on failure to meet legal nomination requirements. However, the opposition maintains that the process lacks fairness and transparency.
With the 2025 elections fast approaching, the wave of disqualifications has intensified debate over the credibility of the nomination process, setting the tone for a tense and closely watched election season.
