The Electoral Commission (EC) has intensified preparations for the 2026 General Elections by holding a comprehensive stakeholders’ training in Kampala, aimed at ensuring a smooth, transparent, and well-coordinated polling process.
Kampala District Returning Officer Jennifer Kobusingye said the exercise was designed to bring all key election stakeholders onto the same page ahead of polling day.
Kobusingye explained that the training attracted participants from diverse sectors, including youth representatives, workers’ groups, civil society organisations, the Uganda Prisons Service, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), the Police, and members of the media.
“We successfully conducted a stakeholders’ workshop that brought together different actors involved in the electoral process. The goal was to ensure that everyone clearly understands where we have come from and where we are heading, especially in regard to polling procedures,” Kobusingye said.
She added that the engagement was necessary to clarify roles and responsibilities, minimise confusion on polling day, and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
According to Kobusingye, the Commission is now confident that stakeholders who attended the training are adequately informed and prepared to support the elections effectively.
“Those who participated now understand how polling stations will be organised and who is expected to be present. As the Electoral Commission, we are very ready,” she said.
Addressing concerns about voting by special groups, Kobusingye clarified that voters working or residing in barracks, prisons, and hospitals will be allowed to cast their ballots, but only at the polling stations where they originally registered. “There will be no polling stations inside barracks, prisons, or hospitals. Voters from these places will vote at their designated polling stations,” she explained.
She also reassured the public about the use of the Biometric Voter Verification Kit (BVVK), stressing that it will be mandatory for all voters on polling day.
“I urge all Ugandans to turn up and vote on January 15, 2026. The BVVK kit is compulsory, and no one will vote unless it is used,” she said.
Kobusingye dismissed concerns about potential internet challenges, assuring voters that systems will be fully operational and that trained polling officials will guide voters throughout the process.
“Do not worry about the internet; it will be available. Polling officials are trained and will guide voters accordingly. However, I encourage people to come early to avoid congestion,” she noted.
The Electoral Commission says such stakeholder engagements are critical in promoting transparency, building trust, and ensuring peaceful and credible elections as Uganda heads toward the 2026 poll.
