Burundi EALA Speaker Challenge Unsuccessful

The Government of Burundi has been unsuccessful in its bid to challenge the election of Martin Ngoga as fifth speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).

Burundi’s case rested on the argument that Ngoga’s election in December 2018 was invalid as a result of the absence of Burundi and Tanzania, who both boycotted the process after their candidates were dropped. Legal counsel Mr Nestor Kayobera cited Article 57 and rule 12(1) of the EALA rules of procedure in the matter.

However, the presiding judges in the matter threw the case out on the basis that Burundi failed to present EALA attendance records, along with other key documents relating to its case.

Rwandan member Martin Ngoga was elected to the position to replace Daniel Kidega, who had held the post since 2014.

Burundi has called for fresh elections.