Former Bukimbiri parliamentary contender James Owebeyi Mugyemanyi has announced his intention to sue the government of Uganda in court over the repeated rescheduling of LCIs and LCIIs elections. He made this surprising revelation today on the Umugambi weekly program on 91.1 Kisoro FM, where he was a panelist.
The Ankole Times understands that on July 2, 2024, with LCIs and LCIIs having only one day left in office, the Ministry of Local Government extended their term by 180 days for the third time. The first extension occurred on July 28, 2023, pushing their term to expire in January 2024. As the deadline approached, the ministry extended their term by another 180 days.
During his appearance on the Umugambi program, chaired by Bosco Nkunda, James Owebeyi, a qualified barrister, stated unequivocally that he intends to take legal action against the government of Uganda regarding this matter. He criticized the Attorney General of Uganda, noting that the government’s legal representative should have upheld the constitution’s mandates.
Owebeyi emphasized that his petition to the court seeks to annul the extended terms and compel the government to hold elections promptly.
Regarding the situation, Owebeyi commented that Uganda should not emulate governance systems fraught with conflicts and dictatorial tendencies, such as those seen in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
“The Local Government Minister, Raphael Magyezi, cited insufficient funds as the primary issue affecting both the ministry and the Independent Electoral Commission. According to Minister Magyezi, the Electoral Commission requires Shs. 50 billion to conduct these elections.”
Reacting to the financial constraints, Owebeyi argued that Uganda should not continue postponing elections, especially since Ugandans pay taxes.
“He also criticized the assertion that the electoral process, which involves lining up, requires extensive funding,” Owebeyi added.
Owebeyi appeared on the show alongside two councillors: Diana Nakato from Nyakinama Sub-County and Godfrey Maniraguha Rukara from Nyakabande Sub-County, both affiliated with the National Resistance Movement party. They were joined by Ordon Nzabonimpa, the LCI of Shozi village and a member of the ruling government.
Later, all three councillors agreed with Owebeyi’s criticism, stating that it reflects a weakness in the government’s handling of election delays.
