The Kawempe North election petition took a dramatic turn after Faridah Nambi Kigongo accused MP Elias Nalukoola and his lawyers of bribing three witnesses. Nambi, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate, raised the claims during a High Court hearing before Justice Bernard Namanya.
To support her case, Nambi’s lead lawyer, Ahmed Mukasa Kalule, revealed that Nalukoola’s legal team had allegedly bribed three witnesses to withdraw their affidavits. The witnesses in question are Nathan Kayemba Muwaguzi, George Mawumbe George William, and Ben Mukasa Ntale.
Moreover, Kalule pointed out that this conduct violates Rule 19 of the Advocates’ Professional Code of Conduct. According to him, the proper legal procedure requires lawyers to cross-examine witnesses in court rather than influence them outside of it.
“As professionals, we must follow the law and respect ethical standards,” Kalule told the court. Therefore, he asked the judge to bar Nalukoola’s lawyers from further contacting his witnesses.
In addition, Kalule urged the court to consider disciplinary action. He referred to Section 24 of the Advocates Act, which allows immediate penalties or referral to the Law Council for further review.
As a result, Justice Namanya adjourned the hearing to May 5. He also ordered Nalukoola and the Electoral Commission to file additional affidavits by May 9, ahead of the preliminary hearing.
Meanwhile, Nambi’s Kawempe North election petition challenges the by-election results. She cites various irregularities, including campaigning on polling day, obstruction of voters, and now, alleged witness bribery.
On the other hand, Nalukoola denies all accusations. Furthermore, the Electoral Commission maintains that the election was free, fair, and conducted within the law.
In conclusion, this case raises critical concerns about Uganda’s electoral integrity. It also puts a spotlight on the ethical responsibilities of legal practitioners involved in politically sensitive disputes.
