By Sylvia
Several female aspirants for Fort Portal City ward councillor positions have announced plans to sue the Independent Electoral Commission (EC) for compensation following multiple election postponements.
The elections, originally scheduled for 22nd January, have been repeatedly delayed. Notably, ballot papers were not delivered on the first date, and subsequent elections were postponed to 27th January, then 4th February, and most recently to 17th February 2026, which the candidates described as unfair.
Legal Action
Speaking to our reporter in an exclusive interview, some aspirants—who requested anonymity for vote security reasons, said they have temporarily halted legal action until after the elections, citing fears that EC officials might interfere with the process.
The candidates also noted that the repeated postponements have placed a significant financial burden on them, as they have spent heavily on campaigning for the previous three failed election dates. Some expressed concern about completing the final stages of their campaigns due to depleted resources.
The aspirants confirmed that they plan to pursue legal action immediately after the elections to seek justice.
The positions affected include City Women Councillor seats in Fort Portal Central Division West, Central Division South, and North Division Upper.
Impacted wards
Wards impacted include Karago, Kazingo, Kiguma, Ibonde, Kitarasa, Nyakitojo, Kitaka, Mandako, Kagote, Kibimba, Nyabukara, Rwengoma, Bazaar, Kasusu, and Kijanju.
Meanwhile, Fort Portal City Returning Officer Isack Byamugisha stated that aggrieved candidates can take their case to court or submit complaints to the EC chairperson, but expressed doubts about the likelihood of success.