The Ministry of Local Government announced today that Local Council (LC) elections, originally scheduled for January 2024, have been postponed due to a confluence of challenges. While acknowledging the importance of timely elections, the Ministry cited insufficient funding, logistical hurdles, and the ongoing process of harmonizing administrative units as key reasons for the delay.
Minister Raphael Magyezi confirmed the extension of the term for LC1, LC2, and women council officials by 180 days, starting January 6th, 2024. This decision, approved by Cabinet on December 18th, 2023, has been officially gazetted.
“Conducting elections without adequate resources is extremely difficult,” Magyezi explained, addressing journalists during a press conference. The Electoral Commission previously estimated needing at least 56 billion shillings to run the polls. While reports suggested the Ministry of Finance had released the funds, Magyezi clarified that the Electoral Commission is yet to receive them.
Beyond funding, the ongoing process of harmonizing administrative units across the country emerged as another significant factor. “Without clarity on the number, names, and boundaries of these units, conducting elections would be impossible,” Magyezi emphasized. The Ministry, in collaboration with relevant agencies and local authorities, is actively updating the list of administrative units.
Recognizing the potential disappointment caused by the postponement, Magyezi reiterated the government’s commitment to holding the elections “as soon as it is practicable.” Once sufficient funding is secured, logistical challenges addressed, and the unit harmonization process completed, a roadmap and timeline for the rescheduled elections will be announced.
While the delay may present certain challenges, it also provides an opportunity to address critical issues before holding the polls. By ensuring adequate resources, resolving logistical constraints, and completing the administrative unit harmonization, the Ministry aims to pave the way for fair and accurate elections in the future.
