Electoral Commission Raises the Red Flag
With only a few weeks left before the start of the 2026 voter registration exercise in Uganda, the country’s Electoral Commission now has warned politicians against using fraudulent means to eliminate their opponents from the voters’ register.

“We have noted during some of these exercises that people claim their opponents are dead or have left the area when it is not true,” warned Jonathan Kimanje, an EC official, while addressing a regional stakeholders’ workshop held at Hotel Africana in Kampala.

The workshop brought together key stakeholders who included police, UPDF officials, representatives from political parties, civil society, and the inter-religious council. It was aimed at addressing the challenges in updating the voters’ register and ensuring that the process is transparent.

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Voter Registration to Begin January 20
The country’s EC has planned the updating of the voter’s register from January 20 to February 10 across the country. This exercise will enable new voters, particularly those who have turned 18 lately, to register. It also enables existing voters to transfer voting locations or confirm whether their details are correct on the register.

Section 19(12) of the Electoral Commission Act says that all Ugandans, aged 18 years and above, have a right to vote, but they must be registered correctly.

“Seeing is Believing”
Kimanje urged the electorate to actively seek out confirmation that they were registered. “Others may tell you, I have seen your name on the register', but seeing is believing. Take a few minutes to ensure that you are on the register lest you aretechnically knocked out’.”

He explained that the law allows voters to register in places of residence or origin, but this provision is sometimes abused by politicians to claim that their opponents have moved or passed away.

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A Time for Corrections
The EC, however, puts in place measures to rectify such errors-a 21-day display period for the voters’ register is set out in convenient public places. That is when all registered voters should go through the list and point out discrepancies.

“If you are erroneously removed from the register, you can fill out a form for reinstatement,” Kimanje assured.

This will be followed by an additional 10-day tribunal period, where magistrate-appointed tribunals are allowed to adjudicate on cases of omission or wrongful inclusions on the register to ensure all eligible voters are captured before the final gazetting of the register.

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A Fair and Inclusive Process
The update for registration, said Dr. Simba Kayunga, an EC commissioner representing Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, has a very important reason behind it.

“This exercise will register new voters, correct inaccuracies, and facilitate transfers for those who wish to vote in new locations. It is also an opportunity for registered voters to confirm their details,” he explained.

The process aims to include those who were ineligible to vote during the last general election but have since turned 18 or moved to new locations.

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**Election Integrity
The warning by the EC comes amidst concerns over electoral malpractices in Uganda, which heads into the 2026 elections. The preoccupation with verification of details and resolution of disputes simply captures the determination of the commission for a process that is open and free.

Kimanje reminded stakeholders of their collective responsibility in ensuring free and fair elections. “Let us take a keen interest in the registration process. This is a critical step toward safeguarding the integrity of our electoral system,” he said.

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Looking Ahead
As the update of the voter registration is nearing, just a few weeks away, the EC calls upon all eligible Ugandans to actively participate in the process. Verification of details and reporting any discrepancies will ensure that every vote has a say in shaping Uganda’s future.

The workshop concluded with a call for political leaders and stakeholders to be responsible and to hold the values of democracy as sacrosanct. The clock is still ticking in countdown toward 2026, with the preoccupation of Ugandans focused on trust and credibility in their electoral process.

Democracy Starts with You
Check your details during the voter registration display period, so that your voice is heard. Let no one take away your right to vote!