The Masaka Chief Magistrate’s Court has ordered a recount of votes in the Kalungu West parliamentary race following a petition by defeated candidate Ismael Ssemakula, who challenged the victory of MP-elect Joseph Gonzaga Ssewungu.
Chief Magistrate Herbert Asiimwe said the decision was driven by public interest and the extremely close results. According to the Electoral Commission, Ssewungu received 10,106 votes, while Ssemakula secured 10,060—a difference of just 46 votes.
The recount is set for Friday, 23 January 2026, starting at 10:00 am at the Kalungu Chief Magistrate’s Court. Asiimwe emphasised the importance of transparency due to the tight race. “Since this is a matter of public concern, and the difference between the candidates is very small, it is only proper that the votes be counted,” he said.
To minimise disruption, the magistrate ruled that the recount take place in Kalungu rather than Masaka. He also instructed the Electoral Commission to ensure the security of all ballot boxes and voting materials, verifying the seals on each box before moving them to court.
“The Electoral Commission must continue securing the ballot boxes and voting materials. They should ensure their transfer to court occurs after verifying the seals attached during storage,” Asiimwe added.
The court invited all parties, their agents, and lawyers to attend, while urging them to limit numbers. He clarified that the recount would be conducted under direct court supervision, not by individual presiding officers.
Meanwhile, Ssewungu’s lawyer, Caleb Alaka, asked the court to dismiss the petition, arguing that a Chief Magistrate’s Court does not have jurisdiction to handle parliamentary election disputes. Despite this objection, the court issued interim orders allowing the recount to proceed while the jurisdictional question is reviewed.
