NRM Chairman Calls for Active Participation in Voter Register Verification and Updates

By John Kusolo

The National Chairman of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has issued an appeal to all NRM leaders and supporters at all levels to actively participate in the ongoing verification and update of Voter Registers. This exercise is part of the electoral roadmap announced by the National Electoral Commission (EC) in preparation for the 2026 General Elections.

The EC has officially released the timeline for the upcoming elections, scheduled for early 2026. These elections will encompass the Presidential, Parliamentary, and Local Government levels. The first critical step in this process is the verification and updating of Voter Registers, which began on January 7, 2025, and will continue until January 10, 2025.

During this period, the names of registered voters are displayed at all polling stations across Uganda. Citizens are encouraged to confirm the accuracy of the details, ensure their names appear on the register, and provide updates where necessary.

President Museveni has emphasized the importance of ensuring that the Voter Registers accurately reflect the current electorate. He highlighted the following responsibilities for NRM leaders and supporters:

Verification of Names: Individuals should confirm their names and the names of others within their communities are accurately reflected in the registers.

Updating the Registers: Leaders are urged to collaborate with their communities in identifying and reporting the names of deceased persons to ensure their removal from the registers.

Registration of New Voters: Special attention should be given to registering young Ugandans who have turned 18, making them eligible to vote in the upcoming elections.

In his appeal, the Chairman stated:

"I am, therefore, sending out this appeal to request all of you, the leaders and all the supporters of the NRM, to go out in the period indicated above so as to check and ensure that your names are on the registers and also help in updating those registers by removing the dead and adding the names of the new voters – those who have turned 18 years of age."

The accuracy and inclusivity of the Voter Registers are crucial for ensuring free and fair elections. By actively participating in this process, NRM members and supporters can play a significant role in upholding the integrity of Uganda's electoral system. The exercise also provides an opportunity to engage with the youth and newly eligible voters, fostering their inclusion in the democratic process.

The Chairman’s appeal aligns with the broader objective of maintaining a robust and transparent electoral system. All NRM leaders at the Central Executive Committee (CEC), National Executive Council (NEC), District, Sub-County, Parish, and Village levels are tasked with mobilizing their constituencies to participate in this crucial exercise.

As the country gears up for the 2026 General Elections, the National Resistance Movement is expected to lead by example in ensuring a credible and comprehensive voter register. This proactive approach underscores the movement’s commitment to democracy and its readiness for the upcoming elections.

By engaging with their communities, NRM leaders and supporters will not only strengthen the electoral process but also solidify their connection with the electorate, ensuring that no eligible voter is left behind.