In a dramatic turn of events, Walukaga Mathias, a candidate for the Busiro East parliamentary seat in Wakiso District, has been disqualified from the race due to an expired qualification certificate. The decision followed a petition filed against his nomination, claiming that his Certificate of Mature Age/Aptitude Test, presented as part of his nomination documents, had expired by the time of the election deadline. This case highlights the crucial role that academic qualifications play in Uganda’s electoral process and the strict interpretation of eligibility laws.
The petition, filed by a concerned party, pointed out that Walukaga Mathias’ certificate, awarded by the Islamic University in Uganda (IUUI), had been issued on June 12, 2023. The certificate was valid for two years, meaning it expired on June 12, 2025. However, his nomination was made on October 23, 2025, several months after the expiry date. According to the petitioner, this made his candidacy invalid under the existing laws that govern the qualifications for members of parliament.
In response to the petition, Walukaga Mathias and his legal team defended his position, arguing that despite the expiration of the certificate, he had been admitted to a university and was currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration. They argued that his ongoing education and the university’s recognition of his qualifications meant that he still met the necessary academic standards to run for office.
However, the Electoral Commission of Uganda was not convinced by the defense. In a detailed examination of the case, the Commission found that Walukaga Mathias’ certificate had indeed expired and could not be used for his nomination. They cited the specific laws governing the minimum qualifications for parliamentarians, which state that an expired certificate does not hold any legal weight for nomination purposes.
The decision came after a series of hearings, including submissions from both parties. During these hearings, Walukaga’s legal team tried to demonstrate that his university admission should have been sufficient proof of his academic qualifications. But the Electoral Commission, backed by legal precedents, maintained that the laws are clear: a valid certificate is required for all candidates and, once expired, it no longer serves as proof of eligibility.
The Electoral Commission’s final ruling, issued on November 25, 2025, confirmed that Walukaga Mathias did not meet the necessary qualifications for his candidacy. The ruling clearly stated that his nomination lacked the minimum formal qualifications, as required by Section 4 (1) (c) of the Parliamentary Elections Act, thereby rendering his candidacy invalid. This decision effectively barred him from standing in the upcoming elections for the Busiro East seat.
The ruling marks a significant moment in Ugandan electoral history, as it reinforces the importance of complying with the country’s legal requirements for parliamentary nominations. It serves as a reminder to all political aspirants that even minor oversights, such as an expired qualification certificate, can lead to disqualification. The decision is also a stern warning for future candidates to ensure their academic credentials remain up to date before submitting their nomination papers.
For Walukaga Mathias, this ruling is undoubtedly a setback in his political ambitions. However, it also provides an opportunity for reflection on the importance of adhering to the laws and regulations that govern the electoral process. As the Busiro East race heats up, other candidates will likely take note of this case and make sure their qualifications are in order to avoid similar disqualification.
This case also highlights the broader issues around academic qualifications in Ugandan politics. It raises questions about the accessibility of higher education and the role that education plays in shaping the political landscape. With this ruling, Walukaga Mathias has become an example of how legal technicalities can sometimes outweigh public support in the race for political office.
