The Democratic Party spokesperson, Kennedy Mutenyo, has said the general presidential and parliamentary elections scheduled for Thursday, January 15 will proceed as planned, dismissing concerns and late reactions surrounding the electoral process.
Speaking to Canary Mugume during Next Big Talk on Next Radio on Thursday, Mutenyo said the election timetable has been known for years and should not come as a surprise to Ugandans.
“This election on January 15 has been known about for many years, so to me it comes as no surprise except that some Ugandans tend to get on board late. The election will proceed as usual; Ugandans will vote, and Uganda will move on,” Mutenyo said.
In a personal reflection, the DP spokesperson revealed that this would be the first time he physically walks to a polling station to cast his vote in a presidential election, describing the moment as significant for his civic participation.
“For the first time this year, I am going to walk to the polling station on Election Day and tick the box for the first time in the presidential race,” he said.
Mutenyo also noted that elements of the Democratic Party manifesto align with some of the development priorities currently being emphasised by President Museveni, pointing to areas of shared national interest despite political competition.
Addressing voter behaviour, Mutenyo acknowledged that electoral choices in Uganda are shaped by factors beyond policy platforms.
“People in Uganda vote based on a number of factors. Someone may vote for a candidate because they come from the same village or tribe, or simply out of excitement,” he said.
He urged voters to look beyond personal or emotional considerations, particularly when choosing Members of Parliament, and instead focus on performance and commitment to legislative work.
“We want to vote for legislators who go to Parliament to debate, not those who walk out. We need change so that this Parliament can reform rules and work effectively,” Mutenyo said.
He cited the example of a Member of Parliament from Mpigi whom he said spoke only twice in the past five years yet is seeking re-election, describing it as an illustration of poor parliamentary performance.
Mutenyo called on Ugandans to use the upcoming polls as an opportunity to strengthen democratic institutions by electing leaders who are active, accountable and committed to serving the public interest.