Federal High Court amends 2026 pre-election rules, approves virtual hearings

The amendments also mandate that court registries remain open on weekends and public holidays for filing election-related suits. Issued by Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, these changes took effect on July 14, just three weeks after the original Practice Directions were implemented on June 26. According to Dr. Catherine Christopher, the court’s Director of Information, the amendments aim to enhance the speedy, efficient, and fair resolution of pre-election matters in line with the Constitution and the Electoral Act, 2026.

The revised document broadens the court’s administrative and technological capabilities for the 2027 general elections, empowering judges to utilize technology, including virtual hearings. The Chief Judge can now assign judges to hear pre-election matters in any judicial division and transfer cases as needed. Electronic case management is strengthened, allowing urgent notifications to counsel via email and other electronic means with at least 48 hours' notice.

While retaining the limit of two adjournments per party, the new rules state that no adjournment application will be entertained on a hearing day. Parties changing counsel are also limited to two adjournments. Preliminary objections and interlocutory issues concerning jur