By Mulengera Reporters
The Electoral Commission (EC) has launched a clarion call to all citizens to participate in the ongoing General Update of the National Voters Register.
This exercise, which commenced on January 20, 2025, is set to lay the foundation for democratic participation in the forthcoming elections.
During a press conference at the EC headquarters in Kampala, Justice Byabakama Simon, the EC chairperson, underscored the constitutional mandate of the exercise. “Voting is a constitutional right enshrined in Article 59 of the Constitution. This update exercise ensures that every eligible Ugandan is positioned to exercise this right,” he emphasized.
The initiative targets three key areas, of registering citizens who have turned 18 or missed prior registrations, verifying and updating details for existing voters, and facilitating transfers for those who have relocated to new polling stations.
He explained that this process is pivotal in fostering inclusivity and accountability within Uganda’s democratic framework.
For registered voters, the exercise offers an opportunity to confirm and rectify errors in their details. “Registered voters are encouraged to confirm their information at the update centers or via our website. However, corrections are limited to spelling errors, gender inaccuracies, or mismatched photographs. Changes to age or additional names are not allowed,” the Chairperson clarified, that this can only be done NIRA.
The exercise, which is being conducted daily, will run until February 10, 2025.
Justice Byabakama called on all Ugandans, particularly young people who recently turned 18, to actively participate. “The seeds of democracy are sown through voter registration. Without it, you cannot vote, contest, or contribute to shaping the future of this country,” he stated.
The Chairperson further appealed to political leaders, CSOs, and community leaders to rally their communities to embrace this exercise. “This is not merely a legal obligation but a civic duty that strengthens the legitimacy of our governance system,” he said.
The EC’s commitment to transparency and efficiency in the exercise demonstrates its dedication to fostering a credible electoral process. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
