Dr. Badru Kiggundu, former Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC) in Uganda, unveils the complexities of managing elections in his new book, “Stepping into the Unknown”.
Appointed by President Museveni in 2002, Dr. Kiggundu led the EC through three significant general and presidential elections until 2016, during which the challenges of inexperience and reliance on manual voter registers became apparent.
In his memoir, Dr. Kiggundu recounts the intense pressure faced by his team, particularly during their first task of organizing a by-election in Kabale District within a tight ten-day timeframe shortly after assuming office. This experience instilled confidence in the team and set the stage for future elections, with a focus on ensuring clean and transparent processes.
Despite internal struggles with authenticating voters, especially those with shared names, Dr. Kiggundu’s team persevered. However, the reliance on manual authentication posed significant challenges, highlighting the need for technological advancements in the future.
While Dr. Kiggundu does not delve into the political ramifications of the EC’s decisions, such as opposition disputes and protests, he emphasizes the commitment to transparency and impartiality. The EC’s nomination of Dr. Kizza Besigye as a presidential candidate from prison in 2005 exemplifies this dedication to upholding the law despite objections from other quarters.
Dr. Kiggundu’s memoir touches on various aspects of integrity, personal and professional growth, and mentorship, offering insights into the multifaceted role of leading the EC. Despite the controversies and pressures, Dr. Kiggundu’s unwavering commitment to conducting elections with integrity shines through in his narrative.
The chapter on elections in his book provides a glimpse into the challenges faced by the EC, comprising only a fraction of the extensive exploration of integrity and leadership within the 260-page memoir. Dr. Kiggundu’s reflections offer valuable lessons for future election management and governance in Uganda.
