The Electoral Commission (EC) has taken a significant step in the preparation for the 2026 general elections by launching the roadmap and strategic plan for the period 2022/2023-2026/2027. The Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, led the unveiling of these plans, highlighting their objectives to improve operational efficiency, stakeholder awareness, and participation, building on positive reforms and innovations from the last general elections.
The launch ceremony, held at Hotel Africana in Kampala, marked the culmination of extensive research and stakeholder consultations. The EC conducted post-election evaluation workshops across the country after the 2020/2021 general election, where various stakeholders provided valuable assessments of the electoral process and its conduct.
However, while presenting the plans, Byabakama issued a cautionary note to political parties and organizations. He stressed that the release of these plans should not prompt a frenzy of campaign-related activities. Instead, he reminded all parties that campaigns must adhere to the program approved and regulated by the commission, emphasizing the need for peaceful co-existence before, during, and after the electoral process.
Justice Byabakama also took the opportunity to express gratitude to the people of Uganda for their support during the 2020/2021 general election, which occurred amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. He reiterated the Electoral Commission's mandate to ensure regular, free, and fair elections and referenda as specified in the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda.
The strategic plan aims to enhance citizen participation, strengthen stakeholder collaboration and engagement, deliver free and fair elections and referenda, improve information sharing, public trust, and confidence in the electoral process, as well as bolstering the capacity of the Electoral Commission.
The roadmap sets specific goals, activities, budget estimates, and time frames to guide the preparations for the upcoming 2025/2026 General Elections. Justice Byabakama emphasized the importance of timely amendment/enactment of electoral laws by the government and approval for the creation of new administrative units to ensure a smooth election process.
The Chairperson thanked the government and development partners for funding the Electoral Commission and urged the government to continue providing adequate funding in a timely manner to ensure the successful execution of the electoral plans.
The strategic plan and roadmap launched by the Electoral Commission represent a significant step towards enhancing Uganda's electoral process. The objectives outlined in these plans are focused on improving operational efficiency, stakeholder awareness, and participation to ensure a smooth and credible democratic process.
With these crucial plans in place, all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society, and the public, must now begin planning and working towards the goals outlined in the roadmap. By doing so, Uganda can strengthen its democratic institutions and uphold the principles of free and fair elections for a brighter democratic future.
