The ongoing investigation into the Bukedea by-election has caused concerns for the Speaker of Parliament Among.
The probe was launched following allegations of electoral malpractice during the poll. The Speaker’s concern likely stems from her political connections to the Bukedea constituency, where she has previously served as an elected representative.
However the investigation has raised questions about the integrity of the democratic process in the region and may have broader implications for Uganda’s political landscape.
Certainly the Bukedea by-election, which took place in 2018, has been the subject of controversy since its conclusion. The election saw FDC’s Moses Olemukan emerge as the winner, defeating the ruling NRM party’s candidate.
However, the NRM party contested the results, alleging that the election was marred by irregularities and violence.
The Electoral Commission subsequently launched an investigation into the allegations, which has been ongoing for several years. Recently, the probe has intensified, with several individuals being summoned to appear before the commission to provide testimony.
The former speaker of Parliament, Rebecca Kadaga, has been linked to the Bukedea constituency due to her previous political involvement in the region.
In 1996, she was elected as the Member of Parliament for Kamuli District, which at the time included Bukedea. She has also been known to have close ties to some of the individuals involved in the ongoing investigation.
Given her connections to the region, the investigation has raised concerns for the former Speaker, who may be worried about the political fallout from any adverse findings. Additionally, the investigation has broader implications for Uganda’s political landscape, as it raises questions about the integrity of the electoral process in the country.
Overall, the Bukedea poll probe is a significant development that has the potential to reshape Uganda’s political landscape. As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what impact it will have on the country’s democratic institutions and the individuals involved.
