Election observers from the Ankole region gathered at Hotel Meridian in Bushenyi for a workshop organized by the Western Ankole Civil Society Forum ahead of the 2026 general election. Representing various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), they voiced serious concerns over the challenges they face while performing their duties.
Kyokusiima Fiona, an election observer, recounted incidents of intimidation, harassment, and physical violence experienced by observers during past elections. She highlighted the urgent need for a dialogue with the Electoral Commission and government to address these issues and ensure a safer environment for observers.
Atamba Eddie added that politicians often use security agencies to initiate violence during elections, noting instances of bribery to sway the election process unfairly. He stressed the necessity of tackling this misuse of power to uphold the integrity of elections.
Arinaitwe Bright, a software engineer and election observer, proposed leveraging technology such as apps and equipment to enhance communication and information dissemination among observers, particularly in areas with limited internet access.
Apollo Kakonge Lee, Executive Director of the Western Ankole Civil Society Forum, emphasized the crucial role of CSOs in providing civic education and ensuring transparent elections.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by observers, including financial constraints and safety concerns, urging collaborative efforts between CSOs, the Electoral Commission, and the government to support observers effectively.
Kakonge called for the establishment of mechanisms to protect observers and enable them to carry out their duties without fear of conflict or insecurity, ultimately aiming for fair elections that empower communities to elect capable leaders for better governance and service delivery.
