Speakership Battle: Counsel Usaama Tears Down Petition Against CEC Decision, Court Adjourns Matter To May 4

By Frank Kamuntu 

The High Court in Kampala on Monday morning heard a closely watched political case challenging the endorsement of parliamentary leadership candidates by the ruling National Resistance Movement, before adjourning the matter to May 4, 2026.

The case, filed by Nsubuga Jack alias Mandela, seeks to overturn a decision by the NRM’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) endorsing Anita Annet Among and Thomas Tayebwa as the party’s flag bearers for Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the 12th Parliament.

Appearing before court, Counsel Usaama Sebuufu of K&K Advocates led the defence on behalf of the NRM, firmly backing the party’s internal processes and the authority of its top decision-making organ, the CEC. His submissions were anchored on an affidavit sworn by Enoc Barata, the party’s Director of Legal Services.

Sebuufu presented a robust defence of the party’s actions, positioning the CEC’s decision as lawful, structured, and consistent with the NRM’s constitutional framework.

“The Central Executive Committee acted within its mandate under the party constitution and established procedures. Internal political processes must be respected, and the court should be slow to interfere where mechanisms exist within the party,” Sebuufu submitted.

He further emphasised that the NRM, as a mass political organisation, operates through established organs whose decisions reflect both continuity and institutional stability.

“This is not merely about individuals, but about safeguarding the integrity of a party system that has clear rules, structures, and guiding regulations. The endorsement process was neither arbitrary nor unlawful,” he added.

On the other side, the applicant argues that the January 29, 2026 CEC endorsement was unconstitutional, procedurally flawed, and excluded broader participation within the party’s now-expanded membership, which he claims stands at over 18 million.

Through his application, Nsubuga seeks several court orders, including certiorari to quash the endorsement decision, prohibition to block its implementation, and mandamus compelling the party to conduct a more transparent and participatory internal selection process.

The applicant also contends that the decision violated principles of natural justice, denied eligible Members of Parliament the opportunity to contest, and relied on what he describes as outdated or expired resolutions.

Legal teams representing the respondents were also present, with Joseph Kyazze and Caleb Alaka appearing for the Speaker, while Alex Kibandama represented the Deputy Speaker.

The matter was heard by Justice Collins Acellam, who adjourned proceedings to May 4, 2026, for further hearing.

At the heart of the dispute lies a critical constitutional question whether internal party decisions, particularly those shaping national parliamentary leadership, must meet broader democratic thresholds or remain within the exclusive domain of party organs.

The case is expected to test the intersection between party autonomy and constitutional principles of fairness, participation, and transparency, making it one of the most consequential political-legal battles in recent months.

As proceedings continue, Counsel Sebuufu’s confident and structured defence has set the tone for what is shaping up to be a high-stakes legal contest.