As Uganda intensifies preparations for the 2025 General Elections, the Electoral Commission (EC) has confirmed that the display of the National Voters’ Register will begin on April 17, 2025, at all polling stations across the country.
Described by the Commission as a “cornerstone for a credible election,” the exercise marks a critical step in the electoral roadmap.
With over 40,000 polling stations expected to participate, the EC is calling on all citizens to take part in what it considers a vital phase for transparency, inclusiveness, and electoral integrity.
Speaking to Nile Post, EC Spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi emphasized that the register display follows a series of key preparatory activities.
“This is the final process that enables the Commission to have a credible election,” Mucunguzi said.
“The display of the register at each polling station ensures transparency and accuracy.”
He highlighted the demarcation and reorganization of polling stations, as well as the compilation of a special register for persons with disabilities (PWDs) as efforts aimed at enhancing inclusivity.
Mucunguzi also pointed to the nationwide update of the National Voters’ Register, concluded in February 2025, as a “landmark exercise” that cleaned up the register and captured new eligible voters.
“The update concluded in February was very crucial because it determines who can vote,” he noted. “It was a landmark.”
Following the register display, the Commission will shift focus to nominations starting with Special Interest Groups (SIGs) in June, followed by nominations for Members of Parliament and Presidential candidates.
While acknowledging some logistical challenges, including equipment delays and misinformation, Mucunguzi reassured the public that resources for the current phase are in place and the roadmap remains on track.
“While not all resources are always available on time, all that is needed for this phase has been availed,” he said.
Mucunguzi also stressed the importance of broad stakeholder involvement, pointing to political parties, civil society organizations (CSOs), media, and religious institutions as key partners in delivering a transparent election.
“Stakeholder engagement is the bedrock of this process,” he noted. “The EC is the midwife, but we need political parties, CSOs, religious leaders — everyone to play their part.”
He confirmed that the Commission has submitted its Budget Framework Paper and remains committed to its constitutional mandate to organize free and fair elections.
The EC is now urging Ugandans to visit their polling stations starting April 17 to verify their voter information, report any anomalies, and contribute to the integrity of the electoral process.
“This is not just a technical activity. It’s a civic duty,” Mucunguzi said.
The display will run for several weeks. The Commission is expected to announce additional details, including the exact duration and complaint mechanisms, in the coming days.