Court orders arrest of ex-MP aspirant over poll petition costs

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The High Court has issued a warrant of arrest against the former contestant for the Busiro South parliamentary seat in Wakiso district for failing to pay costs arising out of an election petition.

The Civil Division of the High Court issued the arrest warrant following an application by lawyers Renato Kania and Rashid Ssemambo, who are demanding that Stephen Sekigozi pays shillings 33.3 million in costs.

In 2017, Sekigozi lost an election petition against Simon Peter Sematimba at the Court of Appeal and justices Steven Kavuma (now retired), Cheborion Barishaki and Catherine Bamugemereire, ordered him to pay the costs of the petition to the latter (Sematimba).     

Deputy Registrar Jamson Karemani said whereas Sekigozi was adjudged and ordered by court to pay the money as taxed costs, he has refused.

“This is to command you to arrest the said respondent Sekigozi unless the said debtor shall pay to you the said sum of shillings 33.3 million together with costs for executing this process or to bring the said respondent before court with all convenient speed,” he directed.

Karemani also directed the Police officers to ensure that the execution is done in a proper manner and provide security to the bailiff. 

The warrant of arrest was signed by the court registrar on Wednesday.