National Unity Platform (NUP) leaders have appealed to Ugandans to turn up in large numbers to vote in the ongoing local government elections, following reports of low voter turnout in several parts of the country.
NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, acknowledged growing public frustration with Uganda’s electoral processes but warned that abstaining from voting would further weaken opposition representation at the local level.
“I know how everyone feels about elections right now, but to not vote for leaders today would be to surrender all remaining positions to the ruling party,” Kyagulanyi said.
He urged voters to take part in the exercise, noting that key local government positions were being decided. “Please go out there and vote. The Lord Mayor, District Chairpersons and L.C.5 councillors are voted for today,” he added.
Kyagulanyi’s appeal was echoed by NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, who also called on eligible voters who had not yet cast their ballots to do so before polling stations closed.
“If you haven’t, please make your way to your polling station and vote for the Lord Mayor, District Chairpersons and L.C.5 councillors,” Rubongoya said.
The appeals come amid concerns from observers over low participation in local government and city mayoral elections, with several polling stations reporting slow voter turnout earlier in the day.
Political analysts attribute the trend to voter apathy, dissatisfaction with previous electoral outcomes, and a perception that local government elections attract less attention and influence compared to national contests.
Local government leaders, including district chairpersons and councillors, play a central role in service delivery, planning, and community development.
Analysts warn that poor voter participation risks weakening democratic representation and accountability at the grassroots level.