Ugandans Called to Action as Voter Update Deadline Nears
As Uganda embarks on the crucial update of its National Voters’ Register, Crispin Kaheru, an election observer and member of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), has urged all Ugandans aged 18 and above who have yet to register to vote to take advantage of this opportunity.
As Uganda undertakes the critical process of updating its National Voters’ Register, Crispin Kaheru, an election observer and member of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), has called on all Ugandans aged 18 and above who have not yet registered to vote to take full advantage of this opportunity to do so Sunday, January 19th, 2025 at the headquarters of Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC).
The update exercise will run from January 20 to February 10, 2025, with registration available daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, including weekends.
For those already registered, the update provides a chance to verify their details, transfer to new voting locations, or make necessary corrections.
Kaheru stressed the importance of ensuring that every eligible citizen is included in the voter register, particularly in light of past challenges during previous elections.
“This is a critical moment for Ugandans to ensure their voices are heard in future elections,” Kaheru said on Sunday, January 19, 2025. “Voter registration must be a continuous, dynamic process. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the 2021 election, where over 1.2 million first-time voters missed the registration deadline.”
Kaheru called for long-term reforms to the voter registration system, advocating for year-round registration and the integration of electronic systems to streamline the process.
He also proposed amendments to the Electoral Commission Act and the Constitution to enable a more permanent and accessible voter register. “We need to ensure that every eligible Ugandan has the right to vote,” he added.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially revised the timeline for the update exercise. Originally scheduled from January 3 to January 24, the update will now take place from January 20 to February 10, 2025, to better align with preparations for the upcoming 2025/2026 general elections.
Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, the EC chairperson, explained that the shift in dates was necessary to ensure a smoother transition as the country prepares for elections.
As stipulated by Article 61 of the Constitution and sections of the Electoral Commission Act, the EC is tasked with maintaining and updating the National Voters’ Register to ensure that all eligible citizens can participate in elections. This update exercise will occur at designated stations across Uganda, where individuals can register, transfer, and verify their details.
This year’s update is particularly important for students who have recently turned 18. They are encouraged to update their information, including their polling station, before returning to school.
The Electoral Commission is calling on all stakeholders to engage fully in the update process, ensuring that all eligible voters are accurately captured and ready to participate in the 2025 General Elections.
