The Soroti Chief Magistrate’s Court has set a date for the hearing of the “No Cow No Vote” protest case on February 12, 2026.
The case involves the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party president, Patrick Amuriat Oboi, including Jonathan Ebwalu, member of Parliament for Soroti City West, Joan Alobo, MP for Soroti City, and 12 others, who are facing various protest-related charges
During a hearing on Thursday, the court adjourned the case, citing the need for the prosecution to present its evidence. Defense counsel Gabriel Ogire requested the court to dismiss the proceedings, citing the prosecution’s failure to initiate the hearing for nearly five months.
Chief Magistrate Hilda Bakanansa Walaga denied the defense’s request, emphasizing that the accused had previously acknowledged the charges and agreed to move forward with the hearing. Only MP Joan Alobo was present in court for the hearing, while the state prosecutor, who was expected to provide an update, was notably absent. The accused individuals were arrested in March 2025 during the launch of the “No Cow No Vote” campaign. They face charges including unlawful assembly, common nuisance, and assaulting police officers.
Bail for all of the accused has been extended, and the next court session is set for February 12, 2026. MPs Joan Alobo and Jonathan Ebwalu are anticipated to return to court following the upcoming elections.
This ongoing case has drawn public attention, as it highlights the intersection of political expression and legal boundaries within Uganda’s current political landscape.
Patrick Amuriat Oboi, alongside several party members, expressed determination not to be intimidated by the actions of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government.
Amuriat highlighted the plight of the Teso people, who have lost their cattle, and criticized the government for failing to provide compensation. “This campaign has just begun, and it aims to hold the NRM accountable for not compensating war victims, despite a court order mandating compensation for the people of Teso, Lango, and Acholi,” Amuriat asserted.
The ” No Cow, No Vote” protest was initiated by the FDC party leaders in trying to hold the government accountable for failing to compensate the war victims in Teso, who lost their animals and property during the insurgency in 1987 to 2007.
***URN****