The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially launched the General Update of the National Voters Register, a critical exercise ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections.
The EC Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, inaugurated the exercise at Kamwokya II Parish in Kampala Central Division. The event marks the start of a three-week program that will run from January 20 to February 10, 2025, across all 10,717 parishes in Uganda.
According to the EC, the update aims to register new voters, especially those who have recently turned 18 or were previously unregistered. It also allows voters to transfer to new polling locations, confirm their particulars, and remove deceased individuals from the register.
“You must be a Ugandan Citizen of 18 years and above, to participate. We are also giving opportunity to those who want to transfer their voting location from the previous polling station where they voted in 2021 to where they are staying currently. This exercise is happening across the country right now.” said Justice Byabakama
Meanwhile, the EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi reiterated ; “This exercise is essential for creating a credible National Voters Register that reflects the electoral needs of the country. Eligible citizens must take this opportunity to update their details and ensure they are registered to vote.”
Today’s exercise commenced with great enthusiasm, particularly in Kampala’s Kamwokya II Parish, where Justice Byabakama toured the stations. He engaged with registrants, emphasizing the importance of ensuring their details are accurate.
The Commission expects the total number of voters on the register to exceed 19 million by the end of the update period.
Deputy EC spokesperson Paul Bukenya highlighted that the update will also cater to special categories, including Youth, Older Persons, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), to prepare for respective council elections. Additionally, students who were registered under NIRA’s special program can now assign themselves polling stations within their parishes.
The EC confirmed that parish update stations will operate daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, including weekends. Justice Byabakama, during his launch address, urged all stakeholders to actively participate in the exercise, describing it as a cornerstone for credible and transparent elections.
The Commission reassured the public that its staff have been thoroughly trained to ensure the process runs smoothly.
To facilitate the process, the Commission has deployed over 12,000 parish supervisors nationwide and is utilizing various communication platforms, including print and digital media, to ensure widespread awareness and participation.
Citizens are encouraged to view the lists displayed on public notice boards at District, City, Municipality, City Division, Sub-county, Town, and Municipal Division headquarters. Alternatively, the information is accessible on the EC website at www.ec.or.ug.
Justice Byabakama has called upon all eligible citizens to participate actively in this exercise, emphasizing its significance in ensuring credible and transparent elections.
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