Byabakama reaffirms EC commitment to free and fair elections

31 December 2025, 5:09 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Justice Simon Byabakama, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to conducting free and fair elections as Uganda enters the final phase of the 2026 general election campaigns.

Speaking during his end-of-year address to the media at the EC headquarters in Kampala, Justice Byabakama highlighted key achievements made by the Commission and thanked the government for providing the necessary funding to facilitate the electoral process. He also appreciated political parties and journalists for their cooperation, describing the media as the Commission’s “microphone” throughout the year.

Justice Byabakama urged Ugandans to remain peaceful during the electoral period, noting that the Commission is fully prepared to organise credible elections. He called on candidates to strictly follow the campaign guidelines issued during nomination and appealed for tolerance and responsible language during campaigns.

“Please do not use abusive language,” he cautioned.

On the issue of voters remaining at polling stations after voting, the EC chairperson clarified that this is not applicable in some polling stations, especially in urban areas. He explained that during previous elections, some voters who lingered at polling centres intimidated others, a situation the Commission seeks to avoid.

He further announced that 13 January 2026 is the deadline for the issuance of voter location slips. Since September 2025, the Commission has received several petitions from candidates, some of which have already been ruled upon, while others will soon be concluded.

Addressing concerns about vote protection, Justice Byabakama said accredited polling agents will be sufficient to safeguard the process. He clarified that voters who wish to witness vote counting may return during the counting exercise but should not remain at polling stations after voting.

He also confirmed that presidential, directly elected Member of Parliament, and Woman Member of Parliament ballot papers have already been received and are securely stored in EC warehouses. Other election materials, including pens and election forms, have also been delivered.

The EC chairperson warned the public against a website claiming to assist voters in locating their polling stations, stating that it is not accredited by the Commission. He revealed that the EC has written to the Uganda Communications Commission regarding the matter.

On fears of multiple voting, Justice Byabakama assured the public that no voter will be allowed to vote more than once, as Biometric Voter Verification Machines will be fully utilised to detect duplicate voting.

He concluded by wishing Ugandans a peaceful election period and a happy New Year filled with God’s blessings.