Kisoro Voters Prepare for Key By-election Following Death of Former MP

A very important by-election to fill the seat of Woman Member of Parliament, left vacant after the death of former MP Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi early in September 2024, is scheduled for November 14 in the Kisoro District of Uganda. With 162,189 registered voters, residents are extremely eager for this election to take place.

Election Day Details: 162,189 Voters to Cast Their Ballots

According to official statistics, 162,189 voters would participate in the by-election, out of which 90,808 are women and thus constitute 56 percent of the electorates, while 71,381 are men and represent 44 percent of the voters. These figures are representative of slightly higher female participation and underline the significant role that females have come to play in the political scenario of this region.

This election is closely watched, not only by the local community but also by various electoral bodies and observers keen on its freedom and fairness. In addition, the Uganda Electoral Commission and the Uganda Police Force have both declared their full readiness for the election to ensure all the logistics are in place for a smooth day of voting.

Election Preparations: 322 Polling Stations Ready for Voters

Justice Simon Byabakama, the chairperson of the Uganda Electoral Commission, confirmed that voting will be held in 322 polling stations across Kisoro District. The polls will open from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to give enough time for the people to vote. Immediately after voting, the counting of votes will follow without delay to ensure speed in results.

Byabakama first pointed out the tranquil period of campaigns preceding this election. He urged all the candidates to keep their calm as was witnessed during the campaign period and for the electorate to report to the polling stations early. He warned that whoever tries to tamper with the election process, law enforcement would not spare him.

The Uganda Police Force, supported by the UPDF, has ensured full security in this district on election day. Assistant Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Saiga, the Police Commander for Kigezi subregion, said police officers are strategically deployed in every corner to ensure safety at every polling station. Saiga further reiterated that the police have been oriented to be neutral and non-partisan throughout the electoral process.

The police have equally issued a stern warning against any interference with the voting process, and more particularly, any unlawful attempt to influence voters or any disturbance of any polling station. In addition to keeping order, officers will be watching out for attempts at voter intimidation or other illegal activities.

Kisoro to Host Global Election Observers to Guarantee the Integrity of the Voting Exercise

The head of the Global Election Observation Mission, Baker Walusimbi, equally confirmed that his team is indeed on the ground in Kisoro to observe the election process. Walusimbi’s team will observe the process to ensure the election is free, transparent, and peaceful. Following the election, observers are supposed to put up a comprehensive report on the process, which they will make available to the public and relevant authorities.

Six Contest for the Woman MP Seat in Kisoro

Kisoro Woman MP seat has attracted six candidates from different political parties. They include:

1. Rose Kabagyeni – National Resistance Movement – NRM
2. Salim Sultana – National Unity Platform – NUP
3. Aisha Cyimpaye – People’s Progressive Party – PPP
4. Juliet Musanase – Forum for Democratic Change – FDC
5. Mable Ingabire (Uganda People’s Congress – UPC)
6. Grace Ngabirano Akifeza (Independent)

Each candidate has been intensively campaigning to win the hearts of this district’s electorate. Whereas Kabagyeni represents the ruling NRM party, other candidates come with different political ideologies, thus offering choices for the voters. With such a line-up, the election is expected to be tight, and the people of Kisoro are awaiting the outcome with great anticipation.

Voter Turnout Key to the Election Outcome

Like all elections, turnout is expected to play a decisive role in the result of this election. Interest in this by-election is high due to the fact that there was a high number of registered voters in addition to the timing of this election after the death of a senior leader. For this reason, election officials are optimistic that the turnout will be good, and this election will go without major blemish.

The people of Kisoro are looking forward with anticipation to exercising their democratic rights to choose a representative that best serves their interest in the Parliament of Uganda. As the election approaches, all eyes rest on how Kisoro residents will receive this important event and who will emerge victorious to be their Woman MP.

A Pivotal Moment for Kisoro Politics

This by-election, scheduled for November 14, 2024, will be a landmark in the history of the district. With preparation well underway, security guaranteed, and several candidates put forward, the people of Kisoro are ready to have their say. The election will not only be a test for the political terrain of the district but also reflective of Uganda’s democratic process, where voters will freely and transparently elect their representative.