The Electoral Commission (EC) has called on Ugandans to actively participate in key activities leading up to the 2025-2026 general elections. The message, delivered by EC spokesperson Julius Musinguzi on behalf of the EC Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, highlighted the commencement of the national voters’ register update, set to begin on January 20, 2025. This update is a crucial milestone in the election process.
In his address, Musinguzi emphasized the importance of the voter registration exercise in ensuring a credible, transparent, and free election. “A clean and accurate voters’ register is the foundation of a fair and free election,” he said. “We call on all eligible Ugandans to participate in this vital activity as part of the electoral roadmap.”
The EC further stressed that updating the voters’ register is a significant task that requires full public involvement. “This is an essential part of the roadmap for a credible election, and we urge all Ugandans to engage with it,” Musinguzi added.
Additionally, the spokesperson encouraged Ugandans to participate peacefully in the electoral process, adhering to the law and the EC’s guidelines. “We ask that all Ugandans engage in these activities with respect for each other and the law,” he said. “Our goal is to maintain unity, peace, and stability as we approach the general elections.”
As the 2025-2026 elections draw nearer, the Electoral Commission continues to emphasize the importance of a peaceful, lawful, and inclusive process to ensure that every Ugandan’s right to vote is exercised in an atmosphere of tranquility and respect.
Recently, the Electoral Commission announced a rescheduling of the national voters’ register update, which had initially been planned from January 3 to January 24, 2025. The update will now commence on January 20, 2025, and conclude on February 10, 2025.
Justice Simon Byabakama, the EC Chairperson, explained that the delay was necessary to ensure all logistical and administrative preparations were in place for a smooth and inclusive process. “This adjustment allows us to ensure readiness at all levels and provide every eligible citizen with the chance to participate effectively,” Byabakama said in a statement.
The update will take place daily, including weekends, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at designated update stations across the country.
The exercise will register Ugandan citizens aged 18 and above who have not yet been added to the voters’ register. It will also allow registered voters to transfer to new polling stations, verify and update their details, and enable students who have recently turned 18 to register and be assigned polling stations within their parishes of residence or origin.
Credit: Nile Post
