The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has called on all registered Ugandans to turn up and vote in the Local Council I (LC1) elections, describing village councils as the foundation of democracy and community leadership.
Speaking ahead of the polls, Uganda Human Rights Commissioner Crispin Kaheru said LC1 leaders play a critical role as the first point of response to everyday challenges affecting communities, including land disputes, domestic violence, theft and neighborhood conflicts.
“The quality of life in every village depends, in part, on the quality of leadership its people choose. Strong villages build a stronger Uganda,” Kaheru said.
The Commission urged citizens not to disengage after casting their votes, encouraging them to remain actively involved in community affairs by maintaining contact with their LC1 Chairpersons, knowing their local leaders and, where possible, joining or creating village WhatsApp groups.
UHRC said improved communication at village level can strengthen emergency response, enhance neighbourhood security and support community mobilisation efforts.
The Commission also appealed to voters to exercise their democratic rights peacefully by respecting the law, rejecting violence, intimidation and hate speech, while respecting the choices made by fellow citizens.
UHRC reminded Ugandans that while elections are temporary, communities remain permanent.
“Vote with your conscience. Tomorrow’s opponent will still be your neighbour. Let us protect our peace, strengthen our villages and continue building a safer, stronger Uganda together,” the Commission said.
