Media commentator and politician Frank Gashumba has cast doubt over Joseph Ssewungu’s recent victory in the Kalungu West parliamentary race, saying the outcome remains uncertain.
Gashumba has been openly at odds with Ssewungu for nearly six months, a rivalry that saw him actively campaign against the long-serving legislator both physically and through media platforms within Kalungu West constituency in the Masaka region.
Despite the opposition, Ssewungu was declared the winner after edging out his closest challenger by a narrow margin of just 46 votes.
However, Gashumba insists the matter is far from settled. Speaking in an interview with a local television station, he revealed that Semakula Ismail, who finished second in the race, is preparing to petition court challenging the election results.
According to Gashumba, Semakula plans to seek a vote recount, citing alleged irregularities during the tallying process.
“Joseph Ssewungu’s win in Kalungu West is still uncertain. I don’t want to comment much because Semakula Ismail is heading to court. He wants a recount of the votes. I know there were some mistakes,” Gashumba stated.
Joseph Ssewungu has represented Kalungu West Constituency since 2011, serving three consecutive terms in Parliament. If his victory is upheld, this would mark his fourth term as area Member of Parliament.
The Electoral Commission is yet to officially comment on the impending legal challenge.