Judge urges out-of-court settlement in Wakiso chairperson dispute
A High Court judge in Uganda has urged two political rivals in the Wakiso District to settle their election dispute out of court. The judge emphasized that the financial and time costs of litigation are detrimental to both the candidates and the public interest.
Why it matters
The case highlights the challenges of electoral integrity and the burden of legal disputes on local governance and public resources.
High Court Judge George Okello has urged Wakiso District LCV chairperson Ian Kyeyune and his election rival, Nasif Najja, to consider reconciliation and resolve their electoral dispute amicably, warning that prolonged litigation risks draining both the candidates and the public.
The judge made the remarks on Tuesday during a scheduling conference in an election petition filed by Mr Najja challenging Mr Kyeyune’s declaration as the validly elected Wakiso District chairperson.
Justice Okello emphasized that political competition should not turn opponents into enemies, calling on both parties to reflect on their primary responsibility to the electorate rather than focusing on personal ambitions.
“When you come to court, it is not for you to fight. The fight is now with the brains. It is not the physical one,” Justice Okello said.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in