The Electoral Commission (EC) in Ibanda District has held a key harmonisation meeting with aspiring candidates ahead of the forthcoming parliamentary and local government campaigns.
The meeting, held on Wednesday at the Electoral Commission offices in Ibanda, aimed at guiding candidates on proper conduct during the campaign period.
The session attracted aspirants for the positions of Members of Parliament for Ibanda North, Ibanda South, and Ibanda Municipality, as well as those vying for local government seats.
While addressing the aspirants, Ibanda District Registrar Aidah Barekye Nkeija cautioned candidates against using hate speech or spreading harmful campaign materials, urging them to conduct themselves with dignity and in accordance with the law.
“We urge all candidates to respect one another and ensure that their campaigns are conducted in line with Section 21 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, Cap 177,” Nkeija said. “The Commission will not tolerate acts that may incite violence or disrupt peace during the electoral process.”
Independent candidate for Ibanda South parliamentary seat, Godwin Mpirwe, applauded the Electoral Commission for its efforts to maintain fairness during the election period.
“I commend the Electoral Commission for remaining neutral and ensuring that all candidates are treated equally. This meeting helps to build trust and transparency,” Mpirwe noted.
Another independent aspirant, Rashid Muganda, who is contesting for Member of Parliament for Ibanda Municipality, also welcomed the initiative, saying it promotes peaceful campaigns.
“This harmonisation meeting is timely and will help all candidates to respect one another as we head into the campaigns,” Muganda said.
Meanwhile, aspiring mayor for Ibanda Municipality, Gilbert Mukama Rutoobo, called on his fellow contenders to adhere strictly to the EC guidelines for a smooth electoral process.
“Let us follow the Electoral Commission’s guidance and ensure peaceful and issue-based campaigns,” Rutoobo advised.
According to the Electoral Commission’s roadmap, parliamentary and local government campaigns, including those for Special Interest Groups (SIGs), are scheduled to run from 10th November 2025 to 12th January 2026.
The harmonisation meeting is part of the Commission’s efforts to ensure that the 2026 general elections are conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful environment.