EC Ready to Organize 2026 General Elections, Says Chairperson Simon Byabakama

The Electoral Commission of Uganda, chaired by Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, has reaffirmed its commitment and preparedness to deliver free, fair, and peaceful general elections in 2026. Speaking at a press conference today in Kampala, Justice Byabakama provided an update on the ongoing General Update of the National Voters Register, a critical exercise for ensuring a credible electoral process.

The chairperson emphasized that the General Update of the National Voters Register, which began on January 20, 2025, is central to preparing for the upcoming elections. The exercise enables eligible Ugandan citizens aged 18 and above to register as voters, transfer to new voting locations, and verify or update their voter registration details.

“This exercise is fundamental to ensuring that every eligible Ugandan can exercise their constitutional right to vote and elect their leaders,” Justice Byabakama stated. He highlighted the Commission’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, with update stations operating daily, including weekends, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Justice Byabakama called on all eligible citizens, particularly those who have recently turned 18 or changed residence, to take advantage of this opportunity before the exercise concludes on February 10, 2025.

In addition to the National Voters Register, the Commission is updating the registers for special interest groups, including youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and older persons. These updates ensure that all demographics are adequately represented in the electoral process.

The chairperson acknowledged some challenges encountered during the exercise, including the adequacy and functionality of registration kits and the requirement for citizenship verification for first-time registrants. He assured the public that these issues are being addressed:

Registration kits: The Commission has deployed 2,703 kits nationwide, supported by technical teams to address any malfunctions.
Citizenship verification: The Commission is collaborating with security agencies and the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) to streamline the process for first-time registrants.

Justice Byabakama also clarified that the seemingly low turnout is not a cause for concern, as many registered voters are verifying their details online.

The chairperson announced that the Commission is also preparing to conduct by-elections in Kawempe Division North following the vacancy left by the late Hon. Ssegirinya Muhammad. The program for these by-elections will be shared with stakeholders on January 27, 2025.

Justice Byabakama reiterated the Electoral Commission’s commitment to compiling a clean and credible National Voters Register. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the media, in achieving this goal.

“The Electoral Commission is fully prepared to deliver on its constitutional mandate to organize the 2026 general elections. We remain focused on ensuring that the entire process is credible, transparent, and inclusive,” Justice Byabakama said.

As the General Update of the National Voters Register continues, the Electoral Commission is calling on all eligible Ugandans to actively participate in the exercise. With robust preparations underway and mechanisms in place to address emerging challenges, the Commission remains steadfast in its mission to deliver a seamless electoral process in 2026.