Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon Calls on Stakeholders to Actively Participate in the Adjusted Display of the National Voters’ Register Ahead of the 2025/2026 General Elections

Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), has announced a critical adjustment in the electoral roadmap, specifically concerning the period for the display of the National Voters’ Register and Registers for Special Interest Groups (SIGs). This development comes as the country intensifies preparations for the 2025/2026 General Elections.

In a press release dated 14th April 2025, the Electoral Commission communicated the rescheduling of the display exercise, originally planned to take place from 17th April to 8th May 2025. The exercise will now commence on 25th April and conclude on 15th May 2025 for the general National Voters’ Register. Meanwhile, the Registers for Special Interest Groups—including Youths, Persons with Disabilities, and Older Persons—will be displayed from 25th April to 8th May 2025.

Justice Byabakama emphasized the constitutional and legal mandate of the Electoral Commission under Article 61 (1)(e) of the 1995 Constitution and Sections 18 and 20 of the Electoral Commission Act (Cap 176) to update, maintain, and revise the National Voters Register. He noted that the adjustments are made in accordance with Section 26 of the said Act, which outlines procedures for the display and revision of the register to ensure its integrity and credibility ahead of elections.

In addition to the main display, the Commission has rescheduled the Parish Tribunal display period for handling recommendations on inclusions and deletions. This critical aspect of the process will now run from Friday, 16th May to Monday, 26th May 2025, and will take place at respective parishes across the country.

Justice Byabakama used the opportunity to appeal to all stakeholders—including political parties, civil society organizations, community leaders, and eligible voters—to take active roles in this vital phase of the electoral process. He stressed that the display of the Voters Register is a cornerstone of electoral transparency and integrity, giving Ugandans the chance to verify their particulars, report anomalies, and ensure that the register reflects a true and accurate list of voters.

"We call upon every citizen and stakeholder to participate in the display exercise and to follow the guidelines that will be issued. This is a crucial opportunity to ensure that every eligible Ugandan is correctly captured on the National Voters Register ahead of the elections," remarked Justice Byabakama.

The Electoral Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free and fair elections and referenda, and reiterated that the adjustments were made to facilitate greater participation and a more organized process.

The adjusted dates mark a significant step in Uganda’s electoral calendar and are expected to boost citizen confidence in the EC’s preparedness for the upcoming polls. Stakeholders are encouraged to mobilize their communities, spread awareness about the new dates, and support the EC’s call for inclusivity, transparency, and national readiness.

Key Adjusted Dates to Note:

Display of National Voters’ Register: 25th April – 15th May 2025

Display of Registers for SIGs: 25th April – 8th May 2025 Parish

Tribunal Display Period: 16th May – 26th May 2025

For further information, citizens are advised to consult local EC offices or visit the Electoral Commission’s official website.