By Joseph Kiggundu
The High Court at Entebbe has formally declared the election petition filed by former Busiro South MP Charles Matovu against his successor, Kenan Opio, and the Electoral Commission abated following the petitioner’s death.
In a notice dated October 28, 2026, Assistant Registrar Rashida Butanula said Election Petition No. 0001 of 2026 had abated because Matovu, the sole petitioner, died on October 22.
“Notice of abatement of election petition No. 0001 of 2026 for the directly elected Member of Parliament for Busiro County South Constituency in Wakiso District is given following the death of Matovu Charles, the sole petitioner, which occurred on the 22nd day of October 2026,” the notice reads.
The notice was issued under Section 86 of the Parliamentary Elections Act and Rule 20 of the Parliamentary Elections (Interim Provisions) (Election Petitions) Rules.
Matovu had petitioned the court challenging Opio’s election as the directly elected MP for Busiro South. The case was awaiting hearing before Matovu’s death.
The abatement brings the petition to an end following the death of the person who filed it.
Matovu, who previously represented Busiro South in Parliament, was buried over the weekend. His burial was marred by chaos after Kibuku County MP Robert Kinobere was attacked.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa later condemned the incident on the floor of Parliament.