Three ministers have lost their petitions in the ongoing scrutiny of the NRM party primary elections for parliamentary seats, according to the latest rulings from the NRM Elections Tribunal chaired by John Musiime.
The ministers involved are Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education; Victoria Rusoke Businge, Minister of State for Local Government; and Fredrick Ngobi Gume, Minister of State for Cooperatives.
Dr. Moriku challenged the victory of Chandia Bernadette as the NRM flag bearer for Moyo District Woman Member of Parliament, alleging widespread irregularities such as voter intimidation and harassment.
Chandia denied the accusations and any involvement in violence.
The tribunal found insufficient evidence to prove that irregularities were widespread, systematic, or orchestrated and dismissed the petition.
Chandia was confirmed as the duly elected flag bearer with 9,136 votes, while Dr. Moriku received 6,308 votes.
Minister Victoria Rusoke Businge contested the nomination of Kirungi Annet Pamela as the NRM flag bearer for Kabarole District Woman MP, arguing that Kirungi was still a public servant at the time of nomination and requested the second runner-up be declared the rightful flag bearer.
Kirungi explained that she had applied for early retirement on August 8, 2024, which was granted by the Permanent Secretary on October 16, 2024.
The tribunal accepted this explanation and dismissed the petition, reaffirming Kirungi as the flag bearer.
Minister Fredrick Ngobi Gume challenged the election of Akasajja George Patrick as the NRM flag bearer for Bulamogi North East Constituency, alleging multiple voting, inflated registers, and fabricated results at some polling stations.
Akasajja denied the allegations, and the tribunal found no sufficient evidence to support the claims.
As a result, Akasajja was reinstated as the duly elected NRM flag bearer for the constituency.
By Olivia Nabaggala
13th Aug 2025
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