A councillor from the National Unity Platform (NUP) has withdrawn a court application seeking a vote recount in Nakawa Division following a legal challenge mounted by supporters of the National Resistance Movement (NRM).

Milly Kennyange, the NUP candidate, had petitioned the court presided over by Magistrate Esther Nyadoi, contesting the victory of Rose Catherine Mpayenda of the NRM in the Bukoto II councillor race. The election was held on January 27, 2026.

Kennyange sought a recount of votes, citing dissatisfaction with the results announced by electoral authorities.

However, through her lawyers led by Haruna Nsibuka, she withdrew the case, stating that she no longer expected a meaningful outcome from the proceedings. She also requested that the court excuse her from paying legal costs incurred during the matter.

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Mpayenda's legal team, led by Ronald Olobo, objected to the request, arguing that they had already expended significant time and resources in defending the case. They urged the court to compel Kennyange to meet the legal costs.

In her ruling, Magistrate Nyadoi ordered that legal costs be paid, although she did not immediately specify the amount.

Following the withdrawal, Mpayenda welcomed the development, saying it reaffirmed her victory and pledging to serve the people of Nakawa without discrimination.

Lawyer Nsibuka explained that the existing legal framework made it difficult to secure a vote recount, which informed their decision to withdraw the application. He added that once the winners are officially gazetted, they intend to file a substantive election petition challenging the NRM victory.

Separately, Anderson Burora, who contested for Nakawa West Member of Parliament, said the NRM continues to enjoy strong voter support and pledged to serve the public if entrusted with leadership.