Adjustment of the Commencement of the General Update of the National Voters' Register

By John Kusolo

The Electoral Commission of Uganda, mandated under Article 61(1)(e) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (1995, as amended) and Sections 18 and 20 of the Electoral Commission Act (Cap 140), is responsible for compiling, maintaining, revising, and updating the National Voters’ Register. In line with this mandate, the Commission has revised the schedule for the General Update of the National Voters' Register, a key preparatory activity for the 2025/2026 General Elections.

Initially planned to commence on 3rd January 2025 and conclude on 24th January 2025, the update exercise will now begin on 20th January 2025 and end on 10th February 2025. This adjustment aims to ensure that all eligible Ugandans are adequately facilitated to participate in the electoral process.

The update exercise will take place at designated update stations across Uganda, operating daily, including weekends, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

The General Update of the National Voters' Register serves the following purposes:

Registration of New Voters:

The exercise provides an opportunity for Ugandan citizens who are 18 years and above, and are not yet registered voters, to be included in the National Voters’ Register.

Transfer of Voting Locations:

Registered voters who wish to transfer their voting locations to new areas can apply for such transfers during this period. This ensures that voters can participate in elections at locations that are convenient and appropriate for them.

Verification of Voter Details:

Registered voters will have the chance to check and confirm the accuracy of their particulars on the Voters’ Register. They can ensure that their details are correctly recorded and appear at the voting locations they indicated during registration.

Inclusion of Students Attaining Voting Age:

Students who were previously registered by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) but have since turned 18 are encouraged to participate. They will need to present their National Identification Number (NIN) for updating and assignment of polling stations within their parish of residence or origin.

The Electoral Commission specifically urges students to take advantage of this exercise before they return to school, ensuring they do not miss the opportunity to register or update their details.

The Electoral Commission, led by its Chairperson, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, appeals to all stakeholders to actively participate in this critical exercise. Stakeholders are encouraged to follow the guidelines that will be issued for the smooth conduct of the update.

This update exercise is a cornerstone of the democratic process, ensuring that every eligible citizen is empowered to exercise their right to vote. Participation in this process strengthens the electoral system and contributes to the transparency and credibility of the upcoming 2025/2026 General Elections.

The Electoral Commission's decision to adjust the dates for the General Update of the National Voters’ Register reflects its commitment to inclusivity and the effective management of the electoral process. Eligible Ugandans are urged to utilize this opportunity to ensure their participation in shaping the country's future through democratic means.

For further details, the public is encouraged to monitor updates from the Electoral Commission and to visit the designated update stations during the scheduled period. Together, all stakeholders can contribute to a peaceful, fair, and transparent electoral process.