Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, officially launched the nationwide General Update of the National Voters’ Register today, January 20, 2025, in a colorful event held at Kamwokya 2, Kampala Central Division.
Justice Byabakama emphasized the importance of the exercise, describing it as a cornerstone for credible and transparent elections.
“We are here to ensure that every eligible Ugandan can participate in shaping the future of our country through the ballot,” he said.
The team later toured Kalerwe Market in Kawempe Division, engaging vendors about the significance of updating voter details. Byabakama urged all citizens aged 18 and above to take advantage of this opportunity to register or update their information.
“This is your chance to make your voice heard. Ensure you are part of the National Voters’ Register,”
He further noted that the process is streamlined to accommodate first-time voters, those seeking to transfer polling stations, and those verifying or correcting their details.
Electoral Commission’s (EC) spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi called on eligible Ugandans to seize the opportunity to register or update their voter details during the ongoing National Voters Register update exercise.
Mucunguzi says that participation in the exercise is crucial for all Ugandans who want to exercise their constitutional right to vote or take part in electoral processes.
“To be a voter, candidate, an agent, or to raise a petition on election matters, you must be on the National Voters Register. This is a critical step for all citizens to exercise their rights under Article 59 of the Constitution,” he noted.
The exercise, which kicked off today, January 20, 2025, runs until February 10, 2025. Ugandans can visit their respective parish update stations from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, including weekends.
Activities will take place at over 10,000 parish centers across the country, from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, including weekends.
Deputy EC spokesperson Paul Bukenya added that the program accommodates special cases, such as students registered under NIRA who have since turned 18.
“They can present their NIN to get assigned a polling station within their parish,” he explained.
The exercise also includes compiling registers for special interest groups like Youth, Older Persons, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). Mucunguzi assured that EC staff have been adequately trained to handle the task efficiently.
Over 12,000 supervisors have been positioned to manage the exercise and ensure its success.