By Editorial,
The Hoima Chief Magistrate’s Court, George Kunihira, has ordered an immediate recount of votes cast in the election for National Female Youth Representative to Parliament held on February 6, 2026, at Hoima City Stadium.
The Electoral Commission of Uganda had declared Mercy Kanyesigye the winner after she polled 216 votes on an independent ticket.
Ampaire of the National Resistance Movement came second with 198 votes, while Julia Muhumuza, an independent candidate, secured 24 votes. Edith Namande Nakayiza of the National Unity Platform trailed with one vote, according to results announced by Kampala District Returning Officer, Jennifer Kyobutungi.
However, Ampaire challenged the outcome, filing Miscellaneous Cause No. 06 of 2026 against Kanyesigye, the Electoral Commission, and the Returning Officer, citing alleged irregularities in the tallying process.
During the hearing, which began last Friday, Kunihira adjourned the matter to today. In his ruling delivered this afternoon, the magistrate ordered a recount of all votes cast, noting that Ampaire and her polling agents had raised genuine concerns during the counting process, which were ignored by both the Presiding Officer and the Returning Officer. End