Minister Werikhe poll petition dismissed

MBALE - State minister for industry Michael Werikhe Kafabusa has asked the High Court in Mbale to dismiss a petition filed against him challenging his victory as MP-elect for Bungokho South constituency in Mbale district.

Werikhe, who is also the incumbent, made demand for the dismissal of the case shortly after swearing in an affidavit before Grade One Magistrate Daniel Opobu at Mbale High Court on in the company of his lawyers.

Werikhe said that the case filed against him by his former political opponent Martin Wanda of FDC challenging his victory is baseless.

"He claims that I used my office as current MP to bring electricity in the constituency and encourage people to steal power and vote for me," Werikhe said.

Wanda wants court to disqualify Werikhe on grounds that the election and results for Bungokho South constituency did not comply with the law, citing illegal practices and electoral offences.

He also claims that there was voter bribery and intimidation, ballot stuffing, multiple voting, manipulation and falsification of results on declaration of results form, among others.

NRM's Werikhe was announced winner with 24,040 votes, with Andrew Mauso (Independent) in second with 19,060 votes and Martin Wanda of FDC managing 18,083 votes.