| Opposition FDC Withdraws EALA Elections Petition, Ordered to Pay Costs |
Arusha, 11 July 2012: The First Instance Division of the EACJ today granted a request by Uganda’s Shadow Attorney General and member of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change for the withdrawal of a case challenging the election of Ugandan representatives to the East African Legislative Assembly, but ordered the applicant to bear the costs for the suit.Hon. Abdu Katuntu’s application had sought a temporary injunction to stop the Parliament of Uganda from voting for Ugandan Members of the EALA on grounds that the rules of procedure basing on which their nominations were made were contrary to the EAC Treaty. The Shadow Attorney General had also contended that there was a pending reference in the Court seeking to set aside those rules and consequent nominations arguing that they were in breach of the Treaty because they did not provide for representation of all six political parties in the House. Mr. Selemani Kinyunyu, representing the applicant, told Court his instructions were to proceed with the withdrawal of the application to which, he added, the Ugandan Attorney General had also consented. The Court, however, ordered Hon. Katuntu, to bear the costs of the respondent because the latter was not served with a Registry-acknowledged copy of the withdrawal notice, hence forcing representatives from the Attorney General’s Chambers to turn up for court. Justices Johnston Busingye, Principal Judge, Jean Bosco Butasi and Isaac Lenaola heard the application. About the EACJ The East African Court of Justice (EACJ or the Court), is the judicial arm of the East African Community established under Article 9 of the Treaty for the Establishment of the East African Community. Operationalized in November 2001, the Court’s major responsibility is to ensure the adherence to law in the interpretation and application of and compliance with the EAC Treaty. Arusha is the temporary seat of the Court until the Summit determines its permanent seat. The High Courts of the Partner States serve as sub-registries. For more information please contact: Dr. John Ruhangisa, Registrar Ms. Geraldine Umugwaneza, Deputy Registrar Owora Richard Othieno, Head of Department; East African Court of Justice |
