Electoral Commission Cautions Presidential Candidates on Vote Protection Rhetoric
In a formal communication addressed to all presidential candidates, the EC Chairperson, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, expressed concern over recent campaign statements urging voters not only to cast their ballots but also to guard polling stations and demand accountability for votes cast, popularised under the slogan “Kanoonye, Kalonde, Kakuume, Kabanje.”
The Electoral Commission (EC) has issued a stern warning to all presidential candidates participating in the 2026 General Elections, cautioning them against mobilising supporters to remain at polling stations under the guise of “protecting” or “demanding” votes.
In a formal communication addressed to all presidential candidates, the EC Chairperson, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, expressed concern over recent campaign statements urging voters not only to cast their ballots but also to guard polling stations and demand accountability for votes cast, popularised under the slogan “Kanoonye, Kalonde, Kakuume, Kabanje.”
Vote Protection Is a Legal Responsibility of Polling Agents
Justice Byabakama clarified that Uganda’s electoral laws already provide a clear and sufficient mechanism for safeguarding candidates’ interests at polling stations. Citing Section 35(1) of the Presidential Elections Act, he explained that every presidential candidate is legally entitled to deploy two polling agents at each polling station for the sole purpose of protecting their interests during the polling process.
Additionally, Section 50(3) of the same Act allows candidates or their authorised agents to be present throughout both voting and counting processes. According to the Commission, these provisions adequately address concerns regarding vote protection, rendering the physical presence of ordinary voters unnecessary beyond casting their ballots.
“The responsibility of safeguarding a candidate’s votes lies squarely with the polling agents appointed by that candidate,” the EC Chairperson emphasised.
Clarification on “Demanding” Results
Addressing the “kabanje” (demand) aspect of the slogan, Justice Byabakama referred to Section 53(1)(d) of the Act, which mandates presiding officers to issue a Declaration of Results (DR) Form to each candidate’s polling agent at the conclusion of vote counting.
He stressed that individual voters have no legal mandate to demand DR forms from presiding officers. That role is strictly reserved for duly accredited agents.
Risks of Voters Lingering at Polling Stations
While the law allows a voter who has cast their ballot to remain at least 20 metres away from the polling table, the Commission warned that encouraging large groups of supporters to remain near polling stations throughout the day poses serious risks.
Justice Byabakama outlined several concerns, including:
The likelihood of arguments, disorder, or physical violence arising from prolonged congregation of supporters of rival candidates.
Space limitations, particularly in urban polling stations, making it difficult to observe the 20-metre rule and potentially compromising the secrecy of the ballot.
Overcrowding, given the high number of presidential and parliamentary candidates, each deploying multiple agents at polling stations.
He noted that the presence of non-essential individuals near polling stations does not add value to any candidate’s interests and instead increases the risk of disruptions that could negatively affect the electoral process.
EC Directive to Voters and Candidates
The Commission reiterated its long-standing position that voters should return home immediately after voting and may only come back at 4:00 p.m. to witness the counting of votes, while strictly observing the legally required distance.
Consequently, the EC has warned presidential candidates to desist from mobilising supporters to remain around polling stations under the pretext of vote protection or demand.
“For emphasis,” Justice Byabakama stated, “the absence of voters or supporters in the vicinity of a polling station will not jeopardise the interests of any candidate. The number of agents present is more than sufficient to safeguard those interests.”
Commitment to Peaceful and Orderly Elections
The Electoral Commission’s guidance underscores its commitment to ensuring a peaceful, orderly, and lawful electoral process ahead of the 2026 General Elections. The Commission maintains that strict adherence to electoral laws by candidates, supporters, and voters alike is essential to preserving public confidence and preventing unnecessary conflict on polling day.
