HOIMA DISTRICT: 13 February 2026— Security concerns and allegations of electoral malpractice have gripped the region as the Hoima Magistrate’s Court prepares to hear a high-stakes petition regarding the National Female Youth Parliamentary elections.
Returning Officer Goes Into Hiding
Jenifer Kyobutungyi, the Electoral Commission (EC) official who presided over the elections at Hoima Stadium, has reportedly fled for her life. Kyobutungyi claims she is being trailed by unidentified vehicles, which she suspects belong to operatives from rival political camps interested in the “black box” containing the ballots.
”My role is to protect the integrity of the ballot box until the court decides the next move,” Kyobutungyi stated, though sources close to her say she no longer feels safe performing her duties under the current climate of intimidation.
Allegations of Tampering
The tension stems from allegations that Kyobutungyi conspired with the NRM Secretariat to alter election results in favor of the NRM flag bearer, Diana Ampaire Kampe. Kyobutungyi has vehemently denied these claims, asserting her neutrality and commitment to securing the original vote count.
The Legal Battle
The legal standoff follows the Friday, February 4, 2026, declaration of Independent candidate Mercy Kanyesigye as the winner. Following her defeat:
Petitioner: Diana Ampaire Kampe (NRM).
Respondents: The Electoral Commission and Mercy Kanyesigye.
The Goal: A formal recount of the votes to contest Kanyesigye’s victory.
The Hoima Magistrate’s Court is expected to rule today on whether a recount will proceed, even as the safety of the EC officials and the physical security of the ballot boxes remain in question.
