National Liberal Party retains water jet symbol after tribunal ruling

The National Liberal Party (NLP) has been granted relief after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal ruled that the party retains exclusive rights to its long-standing water jet emblem, rejecting claims by the Vision for Development Alliance (VIDA).

The dispute arose after the Registrar of Political Parties assigned the symbol to VIDA, citing NLP’s alleged failure to publish its logo in a newspaper as required under the law. NLP challenged the decision, arguing that the party had used the emblem consistently in campaigns, official communications, and by-elections.

In its ruling, the Tribunal found that NLP had a legitimate expectation of exclusive use of the symbol. It further held that the Registrar acted unlawfully in granting the emblem to VIDA without explanation, violating NLP’s property rights and the party’s right to fair administrative action.

The Tribunal also noted the historical connection between the two parties, observing that NLP had previously considered adopting VIDA’s name. This, it said, made the Registrar’s decision even more problematic.

As a result, the Tribunal cancelled the Registrar’s decision dated August 25, 2025 and permanently barred VIDA from using the water jet symbol or any similar mark. Each party will bear its own legal costs.

NLP Party Leader Dr Augustus Muli described the ruling as a clear affirmation of the party’s identity and a safeguard for its political brand.