By Merab Ainembabazi
The Electoral Commission (EC) has begun resolving complaints arising from Uganda’s village elections, even as polling activities get underway across the country.
The Commission has assured the public that the electoral process remains on track, with key stages including voter register display and candidate nominations successfully completed.
Speaking to journalists on Wednesday, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama said the compilation and display of village registers, as well as the nomination of candidates for village chairperson and women’s committee positions, had been concluded.
The register display exercise, conducted from July 13 to 14, allowed residents to verify their details and raise concerns over individuals who may have been wrongly included on village voters’ lists.
Byabakama said the Commission received several complaints related to the eligibility of some voters and candidates. While some matters were handled by parish-level complaints committees, others were forwarded to the national Commission for review.
“We will begin hearing these complaints today and will communicate our decisions to the affected parties as soon as possible,” Byabakama said.
He urged affected parties to remain patient as the Commission concludes the review process.
Campaigns for village women’s committees have ended, with polling scheduled for Thursday, July 23. Campaigns for LC1 chairperson positions will continue until July 27, ahead of voting on July 28.
The EC reminded voters that only those whose names appear on the official village register will be allowed to participate in the elections.
Polling day will begin with voter verification from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., followed by voter education before actual voting starts at 11:00 a.m. using the lining-up method provided for under the Local Governments Act.
The Commission also encouraged candidates to attend polling stations in person. After election, village chairpersons will nominate members of their executive committees, who will require approval from residents.
Justice Byabakama commended Ugandans for their peaceful participation in the electoral process, dismissing claims that citizens had shown limited interest in the grassroots polls.
He said the enthusiasm witnessed across the country demonstrates continued public engagement with local leadership elections.
The EC called on voters, candidates and political parties to adhere to electoral laws, maintain peace and respect guidelines to ensure free, fair and orderly village elections.
