NLP secures party symbol after tribunal ruling in leadership dispute

National Liberal Party (NLP) has won a major battle for its primary symbol against Vision for Development Alliance (VIDA).

This is after the Political Parties Disputes Tribunal ruled that the water jet emblem rightfully belongs to NLP. 

NLP went to court after the Registrar of Political Parties gave VIDA the symbol that NLP has always been using, claiming that the party never published their logo in a newspaper as per requirements.

Party leader Dr Augustus Muli welcomed the ruling, describing it as a decisive affirmation of NLP’s identity and a safeguard for the party’s future.

“The water jet symbol has long been associated with NLP’s campaigns and official communications, and its protection was vital to maintaining the party’s visibility and credibility. 

In its judgment, the Tribunal found that NLP had a legitimate expectation to exclusive use of the symbol, citing its consistent appearance on party letterheads and in by-elections.

The Tribunal held that the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties (ORPP) acted unlawfully by assigning the symbol to VIDA without explanation, thereby violating NLP’s property rights and its right to fair administrative action. 

The Tribunal also pointed to the historical link between the two parties, observing that NLP had once considered adopting VIDA’s name, which made the Registrar’s decision even more problematic. 

As a result, ORPP’s decision contained in a letter dated 25 August 2025 was cancelled. VIDA has been permanently barred from using the water jet symbol or any mark resembling it. Each party will bear its own legal costs. 

The ruling marks a decisive victory for NLP, with Muli emphasizing that the judgment strengthens the party’s resolve to protect its identity and continue its political journey with clarity and confidence.

The Political Parties Act sets out clear provisions governing the use of symbols by political parties, recognising their importance in helping voters identify parties during elections.

Under the law, every political party seeking registration must submit a distinct name, abbreviation, symbol and colour scheme as part of its application to the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.

The Act requires that each political party’s symbol be unique and clearly distinguishable from those of other registered parties.

The Registrar of Political Parties has the authority to reject a proposed symbol if it closely resembles or is likely to be confused with the symbol, name or abbreviation of another political party. This provision is intended to prevent voter confusion and ensure fairness in the political process.

In addition, the law provides that party symbols must not contain elements that are offensive, discriminatory or contrary to the Constitution and national values.

Symbols that could promote hatred, division or violence are therefore not permitted under the Act