EC Addresses Village Election Grievances as LC1 Polls Approach

The Electoral Commission (EC) is actively working to resolve issues that have arisen during Uganda’s ongoing village election process. Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson of the EC, confirmed that, despite some complaints, the elections for Local Council 1 (LC1) chairpersons and village women’s committees remain on track.

Key stages of the electoral process, including the display of village registers and the nomination of candidates, have been successfully completed. The register display, held from July 13-14, allowed residents to verify their details and flag any discrepancies. The EC received a number of complaints regarding voter and candidate eligibility, with some being handled at the parish level and others escalated to the national Commission for further review.

“We will begin hearing these complaints today and will communicate our decisions to the affected parties as soon as possible,” stated Justice Byabakama, urging patience from those involved. The EC has also provided a clear timeline for the remaining voting days. Campaigns for women’s committees concluded, with polling set for July 23. Meanwhile, LC1 chairperson campaigns are ongoing until July 27, with voting scheduled for July 28.

Only individuals whose names appear on the official village register will be permitted to vote. Polling day activities will commence with voter verification from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., followed by voter education. Actual voting, utilizing the lining-up method, is set to begin at 11:00 a.m.

The EC encourages candidates to attend their respective polling stations and noted that village chairpersons will nominate their executive committee members post-election, subject to resident approval. Justice Byabakama commended the public’s peaceful participation, dismissing notions of low interest in these grassroots elections and emphasizing the continued public engagement in local leadership choices. The Commission urged all stakeholders to adhere to electoral laws and guidelines for a peaceful and orderly election.

Source: Nile Post