Hunger and migration blamed for Moroto’s 38 percent decline in voter registration

15 July 2026, 10:23 am

By Lazaro Apunyo

Moroto district has registered a drop in the number of voters following the recently concluded voter registration and verification exercise ahead of the upcoming Local Council I (LCI) and Women Council elections.

Esther Immaculate Ajwang, the Election Administrator and Returning Officer for Moroto District, noted that 25,631 voters were registered during a four-day nationwide voter registration exercise compared to 41,507 voters who were registered for the 2026 general election.

This means that 15,876 voters, accounting for 38 percent didn’t show up for the registration exercise, raising concern among the leaders and election officials over predicted low turnout in the forthcoming village council elections.

Ajwang attributed the decline in turnout to migration patterns, where a substantial number of voters have migrated to different regions in search of food, water and pasture following the ongoing prolonged drought, which has exacerbated food insecurity in the district.

In spite of the disappointing registration figures, Ajwang urged those who have registered to participate in the upcoming village-level elections.

While explaining the prerequisites for participation in the Village Council polls, Ajwang said one must be a Ugandan citizen, aged 18 and above, resident of the village and possess a national identification card.

Village elections have become less important due to hunger and economic hardship, according to Emmanuel Adiaka, a resident of Lolayen Village in Nadunget Town Council.

He said that since candidates stand to gain from the votes, they ought to take the initiative in encouraging locals to take part in the upcoming polls.

According to the Electoral Commission roadmap, Women Council members will be elected on July 23, while voting for LC I chairpersons will be held on July 28, by lining behind candidates.