The Electoral Commission (EC) has launched the General Update of the National Voters Register, a pivotal exercise ahead of the 2025-2026 General Elections. The update, which commenced on January 20th, 2025, will run until February 10th, 2025, with operations conducted daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, including weekends. The activity will take place at designated update stations across the country’s 10,717 parishes and wards, ensuring comprehensive access for eligible citizens.
This update exercise serves several purposes. Primarily, it aims to enable Ugandan citizens aged 18 years and above, who are not yet registered, to be included on the National Voters Register. For those already registered, the exercise offers an opportunity to verify and confirm that their particulars are accurate and that they appear at the correct voting locations as specified during their initial registration.
Additionally, registered voters who have moved to new areas can apply to transfer their voting locations to align with their current residences. The Commission has emphasized that individuals who are already registered do not need to register again unless they wish to make changes to their existing details.
An important aspect of the exercise is the inclusion of students who were registered by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) and have since reached the voting age of 18. These individuals are encouraged to present their National Identification Numbers (NINs) to facilitate the assignment of polling stations within their respective parishes of residence or origin.
This provision ensures that young voters are seamlessly integrated into the electoral process and can actively participate in shaping the future of the nation.
In addition to updating the general voters’ register, the EC will also compile and revise specific registers for specialized groups. These include the National Youths Voters’ Register, which will be used for the election of Youth Councils and Committees, the National PWDs Voters’ Register for electing Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Councils and Committees, and the National Older Persons Voters’ Register for Older Persons Councils and Committees. By addressing the needs of these distinct groups, the EC underscores its commitment to inclusivity and equitable representation in Uganda’s electoral processes.
The Commission has declared February 10th, 2025, as the cut-off date for voter registration and transfer applications. After this deadline, no further applications for registration or changes in polling stations will be accommodated.
This strict timeline emphasizes the importance of timely participation in the exercise to avoid disenfranchisement. Eligible voters are therefore urged to act promptly to ensure their inclusion in the electoral roll.
The General Update of the National Voters Register is a critical step in the preparation for the forthcoming elections. It reflects the Electoral Commission’s dedication to conducting a transparent, fair, and inclusive electoral process. By reaching out to citizens in every corner of Uganda, the EC aims to bolster public confidence in the country’s democratic processes.
The Commission has appealed to all eligible Ugandans to take advantage of this exercise to either register for the first time, verify their details, or make necessary updates. Voters are advised to visit their respective update stations as publicized and provide the required identification documents to facilitate the process. As the nation gears up for the next general elections, the successful updating of the National Voters Register will serve as a cornerstone for ensuring free and fair elections, reinforcing Uganda’s democratic principles.
