Jacquiline Mbabazi has officially been declared the Member of Parliament for Older Persons in the Western Region, running unopposed following the disqualification of her main competitor, Patrick Mutabwire, by the Electoral Commission. This announcement secures her place in Uganda’s 12th Parliament without the need for a vote.
The disqualification arose from a technical issue in Mutabwire’s nomination process. Although he submitted his papers, the Electoral Commission found that he did not meet the minimum requirement of ten valid supporters. Several of the names on his list had already endorsed Mbabazi, leaving him with insufficient backing to qualify as a candidate.
Official documents from the Commission revealed that four of Mutabwire’s supporters—Boyana Benedicto, Muramagi Milton Ssalongo, Nsasira Hope, and Kamuza Eldard Behangana—had previously endorsed Mbabazi. Their dual listing invalidated his nomination, effectively reducing his supporter count below the required threshold and prompting the Commission to nullify his candidacy.
In contrast, Mbabazi submitted a strong endorsement list of 90 supporters, ensuring her eligibility remained unchallenged. The Commission’s decision underscored the critical role of procedural compliance in determining candidates’ fates in highly competitive political contests.
Her unopposed victory aligns her with other prominent Ugandan figures who have secured seats without facing opposition, including Ms. Nyamutoro, wife of musician Eddy Kenzo, Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among representing Bukedea Woman, and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa from Mitooma County, highlighting the influence of NRM-affiliated politicians.
The outcome also reflects the Electoral Commission’s commitment to transparent and fair nomination processes. By enforcing strict adherence to supporter requirements, the body demonstrated that even high-profile candidates are not exempt from electoral rules.
Political analysts suggest that Mbabazi’s uncontested path to Parliament allows her to focus immediately on legislative duties without the distraction of campaigning. Her political experience and network are expected to enhance her capacity to represent the interests of older persons in the Western Region effectively.
Ultimately, Mbabazi’s unopposed win serves as a lesson for aspiring politicians: attention to procedural details is as crucial as public popularity. Her triumph reinforces the importance of preparation and compliance in securing a seat in Uganda’s legislative assembly as the 12th Parliament takes shape.
