EC Intensifies Stakeholder Engagement in Teso

The Electoral Commission (EC) has ramped up efforts to engage stakeholders in the Teso sub-region.

The initiative, targeting district leaders, civil society organisations, and political parties, focuses on updating and verifying the national voters' register.

Scheduled to run from January 20 to February 10, the exercise aims to register new voters, verify electoral data, and relocate polling stations to enhance accessibility.

The goal is to establish a credible voters' register, ensuring all eligible Ugandans can participate in the electoral process.

Speaking during a stakeholder briefing, EC Deputy Chairperson Hajjat Aisha B. Lubega emphasized the importance of collaboration.

"Our engagement with stakeholders is crucial. We need to work together to identify areas of focus, streamline the electoral process, and address the concerns of all parties," she said.

Acknowledging past challenges, Lubega reassured stakeholders of the commission's commitment to a transparent and inclusive process.

"We understand that there have been issues in the past. Our aim is to bridge these gaps and ensure public trust in the electoral process," she added.

Call for Community Sensitisation

Local leaders and civil society representatives in Teso have urged the EC to prioritize community sensitisation, arguing that awareness campaigns are essential for the success of the exercise.

Godfrey Omolo, Katakwi District chairperson, applauded the EC’s efforts but stressed the need for grassroots involvement.

"This is a step in the right direction, but we urge the commission to involve local communities directly. Sensitisation campaigns are critical to educate people on their roles and rights in the electoral process," he said.

Political leaders, including George Okoit of the National Unity Platform, Samuel Eigu of the Forum for Democratic Change, and Benson Ekie from civil society organizations, echoed similar sentiments.

They emphasized the importance of working closely with community leaders to guide the population on proper electoral practices and procedures.

The EC’s decision to include the relocation of voting areas in the exercise has been widely welcomed, particularly in rural districts where accessibility has been a persistent challenge.

Stakeholders believe this move will increase voter turnout and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.

District leaders have pledged their support in mobilising communities to ensure a smooth exercise.

Civil society organizations have also expressed readiness to collaborate with the EC in conducting voter education campaigns.

This initiative in Teso is part of a nationwide effort by the Electoral Commission to build a strong foundation for the 2026 elections.

By addressing concerns raised by stakeholders and incorporating their input, the EC aims to enhance the credibility of Uganda’s electoral process.

As the update and verification exercise begins on January 20, the public will be closely monitoring the EC’s efforts to deliver a transparent and inclusive process that reflects the needs of Uganda’s diverse electorate.