The Electoral Commission has postponed elections for District Chairperson, Directly Elected District Councillors, and District Women Councillors in Butebo District following reported disruptions to the electoral process.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commission said it had received reports of serious interruptions that resulted in the damage to and loss of critical election materials, including ballot papers, affecting several sub-counties in the district.
“The Electoral Commission informs the general public that it has received reports of serious interruptions to the electoral process in Butebo District, which resulted in the damage to and loss of critical election materials, including ballot papers,” the statement said.
The Commission said the disruptions had compromised the integrity of the elections, making it impossible for the voting process to proceed as planned.
“As a result, the Electoral Commission has decided to postpone elections for all elective positions in Butebo District,” the statement added, noting that a new date would be communicated in due course.
The announcement was signed by the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, who called on candidates, their agents, supporters, and residents of Butebo District to remain calm as the Commission works to resolve the situation.
“The Electoral Commission calls upon all candidates, their agents, supporters and the people of Butebo District to remain calm and maintain peace and order as the Commission addresses the situation,” the statement said.
Butebo District is among several areas holding local government elections, which include district chairpersons and councillors responsible for local administration, service delivery, and development planning.