GULU — A legal challenge has been filed against Democratic Party President General Norbert Mao following his victory in the January parliamentary elections for Laroo-Pece Division.
Court documents filed at the High Court of Uganda circuit in Gulu show that National Resistance Movement (NRM) candidate Tonny Kitara has petitioned the court, seeking to overturn Mao’s election.
According to the notice of presentation of the petition, Kitara alleges irregularities in the electoral process and has named Mao and the Electoral Commission as respondents. The court has directed the respondents to file their defence within ten days of service, failure of which the matter may proceed in their absence.
The petition sets the stage for a fresh legal battle over a race that drew significant attention in northern Uganda. In the January polls, Mao emerged victorious in a crowded field that included incumbent Rev. Fr. Charles Onen, Kitara (NRM), Simon Opoka—who had crossed from the Democratic Party to the Uganda People’s Congress—Caesar Lubangakene of the National Unity Platform, and Godfrey Ochola of the Forum for Democratic Change.
Responding to news of the petition, Mao took to social media with a pointed remark: “I don’t fight dogs. I fight their owners. Full stop.” The statement has since sparked debate, with supporters interpreting it as a sign of confidence, while critics have questioned its tone.
The case is expected to test the integrity of the electoral process in Laroo-Pece Division and could have wider political implications given Mao’s national stature as both a cabinet minister and long-time opposition figure.
Mao has also declared his intention to contest for the speakership in a race that has drawn a number of aspirants.
Hearing dates are yet to be announced.
