Justice Byabakama Calls for Peaceful Participation as Uganda Prepares for LC I, LC II and Women Council Elections

The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, has called on Ugandans to actively participate in the forthcoming Local Council I (LC I), Local Council II (LC II), and Women Councils/Committees elections, emphasizing that peaceful participation and informed decision-making are essential for strengthening democracy at the grassroots.

Justice Byabakama made the appeal on Sunday while joining the faithful for Holy Mass at Rubaga Cathedral in Kampala, where he used the opportunity to encourage citizens to embrace their civic duty by taking part in the electoral process responsibly.

Addressing the congregation, the Electoral Commission Chairperson urged eligible voters not to remain indifferent during the elections but instead to exercise their constitutional right to choose leaders who will represent their communities effectively.

He stressed that elections are a vital pillar of democratic governance and that every eligible citizen has an important role to play in ensuring that the country's electoral processes remain peaceful, transparent and credible.

Justice Byabakama called on voters to make informed choices by carefully assessing candidates based on their integrity, leadership abilities and commitment to serving their communities, rather than being influenced by misinformation, intimidation or other improper considerations.

He further appealed to all stakeholders—including political actors, candidates, voters, opinion leaders, religious institutions, cultural leaders, civil society organisations and the media—to support the Electoral Commission in delivering elections that reflect the will of the people.

The Commission, he noted, remains committed to conducting free, fair and credible elections in accordance with the Constitution and the country's electoral laws. He emphasized that achieving this objective requires cooperation from all citizens through adherence to electoral guidelines, respect for the law and rejection of violence throughout the electoral period.

Justice Byabakama also underscored the importance of maintaining peace before, during and after polling, reminding citizens that peaceful elections are fundamental to national unity, stability and sustainable development.

His remarks come as the Electoral Commission intensifies nationwide civic education and preparations for the LC I, LC II and Women Councils/Committees elections, which form the foundation of Uganda's local governance structure. These elections provide communities with an opportunity to elect leaders who directly address local service delivery, conflict resolution and community development.

The Commission has been urging all eligible voters to verify their details, familiarize themselves with the electoral roadmap and participate responsibly throughout the election period.

Justice Byabakama concluded by appealing to all Ugandans to support the Electoral Commission's efforts to organise successful elections by observing the law, promoting harmony within their communities and demonstrating the democratic values of tolerance, respect and active citizenship.

The forthcoming local council and women council elections are expected to play a critical role in strengthening grassroots democracy by giving citizens the opportunity to choose leaders who will champion development initiatives and represent community interests at the village and parish levels.