Election officials in the Central North Region have urged candidates contesting for LC1 chairperson and village women committee positions to comply with electoral laws, avoid abusive language and conduct peaceful campaigns to preserve harmony within their communities.
The call was made during a post-election stakeholders' engagement meeting attended by local leaders, security agencies, the judiciary and other electoral stakeholders from the six districts of Luweero, Nakaseke, Nakasongola, Kyankwanzi, Kayunga and Kiboga.
The meeting reviewed the recently concluded electoral exercise and discussed preparations for the upcoming LC1 chairperson elections.
The Electoral Commission Commissioner for the Central North Region, Anthony Okello, urged candidates to strictly adhere to electoral guidelines throughout the campaign period.
"It is important for every candidate to respect the electoral laws because you all live in the same villages. After the elections, you will continue living together, so avoid actions that can divide your communities," Okello said.
The Central North Regional Election Officer, Tolbert Musinguzi, cautioned candidates against engaging in activities that could undermine the integrity of the electoral process.
He noted that campaigns had officially commenced and reminded candidates that they are only permitted to conduct door-to-door campaigns.
"Avoid holding processions, using vehicles for campaigns, insulting opponents or bribing voters. Anyone found violating the electoral guidelines risks being disqualified from the race," Musinguzi warned.
Musinguzi also revealed that the Electoral Commission will issue voter identification tokens to eligible voters to help verify identities during polling and minimise electoral fraud.
"These tokens will also be used during vote counting. We know there are people who may attempt to manipulate the process, so we encourage voters to arrive early to enable us organise the polling exercise, including the election of village committees," he said.
Luweero Resident District Commissioner Mariam Nalubega assured residents that security agencies are fully prepared to maintain law and order throughout the electoral process.
"Security personnel are on the ground at all levels. Their role is not to participate in the election but to ensure law and order is maintained throughout the process," Nalubega said.
Meanwhile, Johnson Kamuhangire, the District Councillor representing Persons with Disabilities for Kinyogoga Sub-county in Nakaseke District, expressed concern over the increasing number of independent candidates contesting the LC1 elections.
Kamuhangire said many of the independent candidates are members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), warning that their participation could split the party's vote.
"Most of the independent candidates belong to the NRM. We are planning to engage them and encourage some to step down in favour of official party flag bearers to avoid dividing support," he said.
Campaigns for LC1 chairperson candidates officially commenced today, with the Electoral Commission urging candidates to focus on peaceful, issue-based campaigns as the country prepares for polling day.
