EC disqualifies Singer Mathias Walukaga from Busiro MP race

The Electoral Commission (EC) has disqualified National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Mathias Walukagga from the 2026 Busiro East Parliamentary race after ruling that he failed to meet the minimum academic requirement of Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or its equivalent Trusted News reports.

In its statement released on December 9, 2025, the Commission said Walukagga did not present sufficient proof of possessing UACE or a legally recognized equivalent qualification, a mandatory requirement for Parliamentary aspirants.

EC’s position

EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi defended the decision, stressing that it was based on the law.

“All Parliamentary aspirants must demonstrate that they possess the UACE or an equivalent qualification.
Mr. Walukagga’s documents did not satisfy this legal requirement, and the Commission acted accordingly,”
Mucunguzi said.

He added that the EC applies the same verification standards to all candidates regardless of political affiliation.

Walukagga protests the disqualification

Walukagga strongly rejected the ruling, describing it as unfair and politically motivated.

“This decision is unjust. I submitted all necessary documents, and any clarification could have been sought without rushing to disqualify me,”
he told journalists.

The singer-turned-politician revealed that his legal team is preparing to challenge the decision in court.

Shortly after the announcement, NUP supporters stormed the party’s Wakiso offices, protesting the EC ruling and demanding Walukagga’s reinstatement.

Crowded race for Busiro East

Walukagga had been gearing up for a tight contest against a strong lineup of candidates, including incumbent MP Hon. Medard Lubega Sseggona, NUP-leaning independent candidate Magoola Emmanuel, and NRM’s Abdul Kiyimba.

Analysts say this lineup had set the stage for one of the most competitive parliamentary races in the central region. Walukagga’s entry had energized a large segment of voters and reshaped early projections.

With his removal, observers say the balance in Busiro East could shift dramatically.

A political analyst commented:

“Walukagga brought a unique mix of popularity and grassroots appeal. His disqualification not only unsettles NUP supporters but also changes the dynamics of a race that was already highly competitive.”

What next for Walukagga and NUP?

Walukagga is expected to file a legal challenge within days, seeking to overturn the decision. The High Court will review whether his academic documents satisfy the UACE equivalence requirement and whether the EC followed proper procedure.