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FDC slams EC over rushed voter update exercise

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FDC slams EC over rushed voter update exercise
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The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has raised concerns about the Electoral Commission’s management of the 2026 election roadmap, citing inadequate stakeholder engagement and rushed preparations.

At a press briefing in Kampala on Wednesday, FDC President Patrick Oboi Amuriat criticised the Commission for allocating only 21 days, from January 20 to February 10, 2025, for the voter registration and update exercise.

“A process of this magnitude requires at least two months. The Commission’s approach appears rushed and uncoordinated, raising serious concerns about its preparedness,” Amuriat said.

The FDC accused the Commission of disenfranchising voters through poor communication, delays in gazetting electoral areas, and collusion with certain candidates in past elections.

Amuriat highlighted the confusion during the Bukedea Woman MP elections and the Soroti City East parliamentary seat loss as examples of malpractice that the party will not tolerate in 2026.

“The Electoral Commission’s failure to transparently manage its roadmap undermines democracy. We strongly protest these deliberate orchestrations, particularly in key districts like Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono,” he said.

Despite these concerns, the FDC reaffirmed its readiness to participate in the 2026 General Elections.

Amuriat outlined a robust strategy that includes identifying candidates by June 2025, developing a manifesto, setting up campaign networks, and holding a National Delegates Conference to elect a presidential flagbearer.

“We intend to field candidates for all available positions and encourage our members to participate in both internal party elections and the National Electoral Commission roadmap activities,” Amuriat said.

The FDC also announced the second phase of its mobilisation campaign, beginning later this month.

This will involve countrywide mini rallies and constituency-level meetings aimed at rebuilding party confidence, recruiting new members, and empowering citizens to register and vote.

Amuriat reiterated the FDC’s call for comprehensive electoral reforms, urging the government to revisit shelved private members’ bills on free and fair elections.

He also welcomed the idea of a united opposition to strengthen competitiveness in 2026.

“A united opposition is a stronger opposition. We are open to working with other groups interested in building a collaborative relationship,” he said.

The FDC emphasised the importance of voter education and urged Ugandans, especially the youth, to participate in the upcoming voter registration exercise.

“Voter education is critical to ensuring free and fair elections. We call on all leaders, members, and well-wishers to mobilize and inform the public about the importance of registering to vote,” Amuriat said.

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