Kitara Petitions Court to Nullify Norbert Mao’s Election Over Alleged Irregularities

The election of Laroo-Pece Division Member of Parliament Norbert Mao is being challenged in the High Court in Gulu, with petitioner Tonny Kitara alleging widespread electoral irregularities that he says affected the outcome of the January 2026 polls. In the petition, in which the Electoral Commission is listed as the second respondent, Kitara accuses both Mao, the Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and the Commission of electoral malpractice, non-compliance with the law, and illegal campaign practices.

Court documents indicate that Mao, the Democratic Party candidate, was declared the winner with 7,359 votes, defeating Kitara, who garnered 2,867 votes. Other candidates included Charles Onen with 5,562 votes, Samuel George Okello with 65 votes, Wilfred Opobo with 207 votes, Geoffrey Komakech with 236 votes, and Simon Opoka with 318 votes, while 793 votes were recorded as invalid. Kitara argues that the declaration and gazetting of Mao as MP were flawed due to irregularities that substantially affected the results. 

He alleges that Mao violated the Electoral Commission’s campaign harmonized program by campaigning in restricted areas, including Lawiyeadul Ward, disrupting his own campaign activities. The petitioner also accuses Mao of conducting campaigns beyond the legally permitted time, citing alleged radio appearances on Mega FM, Speak FM, and Rupiny Radio between 11:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. shortly before polling day, contrary to the Parliamentary Elections Act.

Kitara further claims that Mao interfered with his rally in Agwee Ward in December 2025 by driving through the venue, disrupting mobilization efforts. Another key issue raised is the alleged misuse of state resources. Kitara contends that Mao used an official government vehicle and police escorts attached to his ministerial office for campaign purposes, giving him an unfair advantage over other candidates.

The petition also accuses the Electoral Commission of collusion, alleging that one of its officials attended Mao’s rally and issued a voter identification slip during the event, compromising the body’s neutrality. Kitara further alleges voter bribery and illegal inducements, claiming that Mao and his agents distributed money to influence voters. Among the cited incidents is an allegation that Mao gave 150,000 shillings to a women’s savings group leader in Gulu Town Primary School to sway support.

He also accuses Mao of making false statements during the campaign, including claims that some candidates had stepped down in his favour, and telling voters that Kitara could instead be appointed to a government or judicial position. Additionally, Kitara alleges that Mao told voters he had the backing of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, which he argues amounted to undue influence.

Kitara faults the Electoral Commission for failing to act on his complaints during the campaign period, arguing that the cumulative effect of these actions undermined the credibility of the election. He is now seeking a court declaration that the election was conducted in violation of the law, nullification of Mao’s victory, and an order for a fresh election, as well as costs of the petition.

Summons have already been issued directing Mao and the Electoral Commission to file their responses within 10 days. The High Court is yet to set a hearing date as the deadline for filing election petitions closes on April 2, 2026.