In an unexpected twist, the highly anticipated appointment of Hon Kasule Sebunya as one of the new Electoral Commission (EC) commissioners took a surprising turn at the 11th hour.
The final list, vetted by Parliament on Tuesday, shockingly excluded Sebunya, sparking speculations about the reasons behind this abrupt decision.
Initially considered for a crucial role in the EC, Hon Kasule Sebunya now finds himself omitted from the final lineup. This exclusion holds significant implications, given the pivotal role of EC commissioners in overseeing electoral processes and ensuring transparency in Uganda’s democratic system.
President Yoweri Museveni, in a letter dated January 5, 2024, presented a list of 7 nominated commissioners for vetting to replace the outgoing commissioners. The retained ones include chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, his deputy Hajati Aisha Lubega, and Steven Tashobya were among those nominated, alongside new faces like Dr. Sallie Simba Kayunga, Anthony Okeillo, Pamella Etonu Okudi, and Robert Kasule Sebunya.
However, during the vetting on Tuesday, Kasule’s absence raised eyebrows, and he was subsequently replaced by Caroline Bainamaryo.
This exclusion adds a layer of mystery to the appointment process, prompting questions about the factors leading to Hon Kasule Sebunya’s removal from the list. Whether the decision was made by the President or other authorities remains unclear.
According to the constitution, it is only the President who is mandated to appoint commissioners, while Parliament conducts the vetting process.
The absence of Sebunya during the vetting process might suggest that he was found unfit for the position, contributing to the last-minute decision to drop him.
Sebunya, who previously served as the Nansana Municipality MP, faced defeat in the 2016 general elections and again in 2021. The unfolding developments surrounding his exclusion are sure to be closely monitored as the story continues to unravel.