The Bishop of Busoga Diocese, Rt Rev Prof Grace Lubaale, has raised concern over the conduct of elections in Uganda, warning that persistent irregularities are weakening public trust and undermining the country’s democratic foundations.
He said the cumulative challenges across the electoral cycle risk delegitimising elected leaders and demanded urgent reforms to restore credibility.
Speaking at a thanksgiving ceremony organised by Jinja District Woman Member of Parliament Peace Tibyaze of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Lubaale said Uganda’s electoral process has become increasingly flawed and needs immediate correction.
“The way elections are conducted in Uganda has become deeply flawed and filled with irregularities,” he said. “There is an urgent need for reforms because the current situation undermines the country’s democracy.”
He cited challenges across the electoral cycle, including alleged manipulation of the national voters’ register, difficulties in candidate nomination, restrictions during campaigns, and disputes over declaration of results.
“Some candidates are unilaterally deleted from the national register. Getting nominated is difficult, campaigning is another hurdle, and being declared a winner becomes a nightmare. All this undermines the democracy of our country,” he added.
The Bishop, addressing Peace Tibyaze, urged her to relay his concerns to the highest levels of government.
“Honourable Peace, since you are from the ruling party, I believe you can deliver my message to the President. We need to change the way our elections are conducted and adhere to democratic principles that demand free and fair processes,” he said.
He further questioned the legitimacy of some elected leaders, arguing that electoral inconsistencies have produced disputed mandates.
“I know many Members of Parliament are in Parliament but were not legally declared. This is not good for our country,” he said.
First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga commended voters in Busoga for electing leaders she described as capable and reaffirmed government commitment to regional development.
“I thank the people of Busoga for electing leaders from among themselves. We are committed to working together to drive the development of the Busoga sub-region,” Kadaga said.
Tibyaze said she remains committed to fulfilling her campaign pledges and improving service delivery in her constituency.
“I pledge to fulfill all the promises I made during the campaigns and to improve service delivery in our area,” she said.
Other leaders at the event called for unity and coordinated leadership to address regional challenges. Luuka South MP Stephen Kisa, who also chairs the Busoga Parliamentary Group, emphasised teamwork among leaders.
“We shall work as a team to ensure effective service delivery in the Busoga sub-region,” he said.
Bugweri County MP Sadala Wandera also called for collective action among leaders to strengthen advocacy for regional development.
“This time round, we have resolved to work together and actively lobby for the people of Busoga,” he said.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Members of Parliament from different districts, Minister designate for Karamoja Affairs John Baptist Lokii, and former Minister Daudi Migereko.
Bishop Lubaale’s remarks add to ongoing national debate over the credibility of Uganda’s electoral processes and growing calls for reforms to strengthen democratic governance.
