High Court Petition Seeks to Halt Gen. Moses Ali's MP Candidacy Due to Alleged Cognitive Issues

A petition has been submitted to the High Court of Uganda, seeking to block veteran politician Gen. Moses Ali from contesting for Member of Parliament due to alleged cognitive and physical incapacity. The petition, lodged by lawyer and renowned author Kakwenza Rukirabashaija, is based on Articles 50(1) and 137(3) of the Constitution and targets the Electoral Commission, Gen. Moses Ali, and the Attorney General.

Kakwenza argues that Gen. Moses Ali, a former Finance Minister during Idi Amin's regime, who is now in his 80s, is not medically or cognitively fit to run for office. The petition specifically references Article 80(2)(f) of the Constitution, which disqualifies individuals of "unsound mind" from standing for Parliament.

Gen. Moses Ali's physical condition came into question when he was reportedly nominated from his car at the NRM headquarters in Kampala, as he was unable to walk to the nomination tent. Despite concerns raised over his health and ability to serve, his nomination was supported by Minister Balaam Barugahara.

The petitioner asserts that Gen. Ali's declining health, evident in public appearances and documented instances, renders him incapable of fulfilling the duties of a Member of Parliament, such as debating, voting, and effectively representing constituents. The petition also highlights the Leadership Code Act and Public Service Regulations, which emphasize the need for leaders to maintain the dignity of public office and allow for retirement or disqualification on medical grounds.

Kakwenza warns that permitting Gen. Moses Ali to run for office would disenfranchise the constituents of Adjumani West County, as it would violate their constitutional right to effective representation. The petition awaits a response from the Electoral Commission, while Gen. Ali and his legal team have not issued any official comments. The High Court is expected to schedule a hearing in the near future.