The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has voiced strong concerns about the National Electoral Commission’s handling of the upcoming 2025/2026 General Elections, particularly regarding amendments to the electoral roadmap and the voter registration process.
According to the Electoral Commission’s roadmap, Uganda’s next President is expected to be announced in January 2026.
However, the FDC has accused the Commission of making significant amendments to the roadmap without adequate communication to key stakeholders, including political party leaders and the public.
One contentious change is the timeframe for updating the Voters Register, which has been set for January 20 to February 10, 2025.
The FDC argues that the allocated 21 days are insufficient for a process of this magnitude, which includes registering new voters and updating polling station details.
The original timeline had also been brief, running from January 3 to January 25, 2025, offering only 23 days.
“This critical exercise requires at least two months,” said an FDC spokesperson. “The Electoral Commission’s rushed and uncoordinated approach raises serious concerns about its preparedness.”
Allegations of Mismanagement
The FDC has further alleged that the Electoral Commission has engaged in malpractices, including collusion with certain candidates to disenfranchise voters by manipulating the voter database.
They pointed to incidents in the 2021 elections, particularly the Bukedea Woman MP elections, as examples of irregularities they will not tolerate this time.
The Commission has also been criticized for failing to gazette electoral areas for the 2026 elections by the end of November 2024, as stipulated in the roadmap.
As of January 15, 2025, no information has been shared despite formal inquiries from stakeholders.
“This lack of transparency mirrors the chaos of 2020, where areas were gazetted just days before nominations, causing significant challenges,” the FDC stated.
“Such deliberate disorganization cost us seats like Soroti City East in the last elections, and it must not happen again.”
Voter Education and Mobilization
The FDC also raised concerns about inadequate voter education regarding the update of the National Voters Register and registration for special interest groups.
They accused the Electoral Commission of failing to communicate effectively with the public about these programs.
In response, the FDC has called on its leaders, members, and supporters to mobilize and inform the public about the importance of participating in the voter update exercise.
They particularly urged youth and other eligible groups to register in preparation for the upcoming elections.
“The right to vote is fundamental to democracy,” the FDC stated. “We will not stand by as the Electoral Commission compromises the integrity of the electoral process.”
As the 2025/2026 elections approach, the FDC emphasized the need for transparency and accountability to ensure free and fair elections for all Ugandans.
