Former Busiro South Member of Parliament Charles Matovu has died, sending shockwaves through Uganda’s political circles as his election petition challenging the 2026 parliamentary results was entering the hearing stage.
The death was announced on Thursday by National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who mourned Matovu as a brother, comrade and fellow leader.
The cause of death had not been disclosed at the time of the announcement.
Matovu represented Busiro South in the 11th Parliament and contested for re-election in 2026 under the NUP ticket. He lost the race to Kenan Opio but subsequently challenged the outcome in court, alleging irregularities in the electoral process.
The former legislator sought to have Opio’s election nullified, arguing that the alleged irregularities had affected the results.
His death comes amid the ongoing legal dispute over the election outcome. The case had reportedly reached the substantive hearing stage, although the implications of Matovu’s passing for the pending petition remain unclear.
His death marks a significant loss for his political associates and supporters, with further details about the circumstances surrounding his passing still awaited.
Key Highlights
- Charles Matovu is dead: The former Busiro South MP’s death was announced on Thursday, October 22, 2026.
- Bobi Wine mourns: The NUP president publicly paid tribute to the former legislator.
- Election dispute: Matovu had challenged Kenan Opio’s victory in the 2026 parliamentary election.
- Cause of death: Details surrounding his death had not been disclosed.
- Court case: The status of the pending election petition following his death remains unclear.
Takeaway Points
- Matovu served as Busiro South MP in Uganda’s 11th Parliament.
- He contested the 2026 election under the National Unity Platform.
- He challenged the election outcome in court, citing alleged irregularities.
- Further information is awaited on his death and the future of the pending legal proceedings.
