By Mulengera Reporters
[A bad workman may blame his tools, but a wise one finds a way to work with them].
This saying holds true for Uganda’s Electoral Commission (EC), which finds itself navigating a critical voter registration exercise amidst significant challenges. With limited voter registration kits and aging equipment, the EC has acknowledged the hurdles but remains steadfast in its commitment to a transparent and credible electoral process.
Addressing the media during a press briefing, Justice Simon Byabakama, the EC Chairperson, reassured the public of the Commission’s dedication to overcoming these obstacles.
He emphasized the importance of the ongoing exercise in building a credible voters’ register ahead of the 2026 general elections and called for patience and support from the public.
The EC’s efforts have been constrained by a shortage of voter registration kits, which are essential for capturing and updating voter information. According to Justice Byabakama, only 2,703 kits have been deployed nationwide, far below the required 5,000 kits. These kits, procured by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) for the 2014/2015 registration exercise, have aged over time and are now prone to technical malfunctions.
To mitigate the shortage, the EC has adopted a rotational system for the kits, ensuring that all sub-counties receive coverage, despite of a staggered schedule.
High-population areas, such as Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono districts, have been given additional kits to cater to the increased demand. “We understand the pressure on the system, especially in densely populated areas, and we have prioritized these regions accordingly,” Byabakama said.
The EC is also working closely with NIRA to ensure that the equipments are maintained and repaired as needed.
Specialized troubleshooting teams have been deployed across the country to address technical issues promptly, minimizing downtime and ensuring the exercise proceeds smoothly.
He called on Ugandans to remain cooperative, emphasizing that the exercise is fundamental to the credibility of the electoral process. “Building a credible voters’ register is a collective responsibility. We urge the public to exercise patience as we work to address these challenges.”
Despite the challenges, the EC remains committed to innovation and problem-solving to ensure the success of the exercise.
The Commission’s proactive measures underscore its determination to uphold democratic principles, even in the face of logistical constraints. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
