The Electoral Commission (EC) has defended its decision to involve security agencies in the ongoing general update of the national voters’ register, a move that has drawn criticism from opposition groups and civil society organizations.
The directive requires first-time applicants for voter registration to undergo verification through community security structures, including Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), District Internal Security Officers (DISOs), and Gombolola Internal Security Officers (GISOs). Critics have raised concerns about the potential for political interference, given the partisan perceptions of these officials.
During an update on the voter registration and verification process, which commenced last Monday, EC chairperson justice Stephen Byabakama acknowledged the criticism but described the measure as a necessary safeguard.
“Uganda is home to many individuals who are not citizens, and the law requires that only Ugandans can vote,” Byabakama explained.
He argued that security agencies are uniquely positioned to confirm citizenship, a requirement for voter eligibility. However, he stressed that the EC retains ultimate authority over the voter registration process and has not delegated its mandate to these agencies.
“If RDCs, DISOs, or GISOs demand money or act unfairly, this is criminal behaviour and will be dealt with accordingly,” he said, urging the public to report any instances of malpractice.
Byabakama clarified that security verification is limited to first-time applicants and does not apply to already registered voters. Opposition politicians and civil society organizations remain sceptical about the involvement of security agencies. They argue that RDCs, DISOs, and GISOs are often seen as partisan figures aligned with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), potentially undermining the credibility of the voter registration process.
“The requirement for recommendations from security officers could discourage eligible voters from registering, particularly those who perceive these officers as biased,” one opposition leader commented.
Byabakama emphasized the importance of public vigilance and stakeholder engagement in ensuring the integrity of the voter registration exercise.
“We should all aim to build a credible voters’ register. This exercise is critical for the integrity of the upcoming elections,” he said.
The EC also urged stakeholders to focus on mobilizing eligible voters and ensuring strict adherence to the established procedures. As part of the update exercise, the EC is also compiling and revising voters’ registers for special interest groups. These include: the national youth voters register for the election of youth councils and committees, national PWDs (Persons with Disabilities) voters register for the election of PWD councils and committees and the national older persons voters register for the election of older persons councils and committees.
I can never understand the involvement of security in this exercise.
There is the registry where a voters name is ticked off on the spot when voting and the person goes away. So what is there to secure apart from intimidating innocent people?
People are not there to deposit or withdraw money. Take that security to banks which are being robbed everyday. I should be somewhere where it is badly needed.