By John Kusolo
Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, has been at the forefront of a critical exercise aimed at enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of the voting process across Uganda. The exercise, which concluded on 16th August 2024, was part of the Commission’s strategic preparation for the 2025/2026 General Elections. It involved the re-organization of polling stations nationwide, a move that is expected to facilitate a smoother and more inclusive electoral process.
*Mandate and Purpose of the Exercise*
Under the Electoral Commission Act, 1997 (Cap 140), the Commission is mandated to establish and operate polling stations for elections. Justice Byabakama emphasized that the re-organization of polling stations is a necessary step to ensure that voters have adequate space at polling stations and that the number of voters per station remains manageable. The exercise was conducted from 6th August 2024 to 16th August 2024, and it involved a series of activities designed to streamline the voting process.
Key Activities Undertaken
The re-organization exercise involved several key activities, including:
*Merging of Polling Stations* : Polling stations with a low number of voters within the same parish or ward were merged. This was done to optimize the distribution of voters and ensure that polling stations are easily accessible to the electorate.
*Splitting of Polling Stations* : In areas like Kampala, where polling stations had more than 1,200 voters, and in the rest of Uganda, where stations had more than 900 voters, the Commission split these stations into smaller, more manageable units.
*Rationalizing Polling Stations* : Large polling stations that had been previously split based on the alphabet were further rationalized based on village or cell divisions. This measure aimed to reduce confusion and improve the efficiency of the voting process.
*Re-location of Polling Stations* : Some polling stations were relocated to more suitable locations. This included stations that were congested, located in contested areas, or in proximity to new infrastructure developments.
*Re-naming and Harmonization* : Polling stations that had changed location or whose names did not reflect their current areas were re-named. Additionally, there was a harmonization of parish and village names with the corresponding polling stations.
*Creation of New Polling Stations:* In areas where no polling stations existed or where new ones were needed, the Commission created additional polling stations to ensure comprehensive coverage.
*Impact and Public Participation*
Justice Byabakama highlighted the importance of public cooperation in this exercise. The success of the re-organization largely depended on the active participation of community members and local leaders, who were encouraged to engage with election officials during the process. By ensuring that polling stations are appropriately located and adequately sized, the Commission aims to minimize logistical challenges and reduce voter apathy in the upcoming elections.
The re-organization is also expected to enhance the transparency and credibility of the electoral process. By addressing potential issues related to overcrowding, voter accessibility, and polling station proximity, the Electoral Commission is working to create a more conducive environment for voters to exercise their democratic rights.
As Uganda moves closer to the 2025/2026 General Elections, the re-organization of polling stations marks a significant milestone in the Electoral Commission’s preparations. Under the leadership of Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the Commission has demonstrated its commitment to ensuring that the electoral process is efficient, transparent, and accessible to all voters. The success of this exercise will likely play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the forthcoming elections, reinforcing the integrity of Uganda’s democratic institutions.
Comments