Three contenders for the Bukedea District Woman Member of Parliament seat have been sued on allegations that they are not registered voters. Those summoned to the High Court on Monday, 29th September, include Hellen Odeke Akol, Susan Norma Otai, and Marion Mercy Alupo. The short notice of the summons has drawn criticism from observers.
The petition was filed by Zipporah Akol, who has previously challenged Hellen Odeke Akol’s eligibility. In 2021, she lodged a similar case that led to an interim court injunction stopping the Electoral Commission from nominating Odeke. Although Odeke later successfully defended her registration status up to the Court of Appeal, the injunction remained in place during the nomination period, ultimately preventing her from running.
Earlier this year, Odeke again faced a related petition during the NRM party primaries, which resulted in another injunction blocking her nomination. That case has since been withdrawn.
Despite the latest legal challenge, both Odeke and Alupo have expressed confidence in their voter registration status. They say they will present evidence in court to confirm their eligibility to contest.
The High Court’s ruling is expected to play a decisive role in shaping Bukedea’s political contest. It will determine which candidates remain in the race against the incumbent, Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Anita Among.
