By Diana N. Kintu
The Electoral Commission of Uganda has reiterated its commitment to conducting a transparent and credible electoral process, following a high-level engagement with a delegation from the Joint African Union (AU), COMESA, and IGAD Election Observation Mission. The meeting, held on the morning of 12th January, was led by former Nigerian President H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, who heads the observer mission for Uganda’s 2026 General Elections.
During the briefing, the Commission outlined the comprehensive electoral roadmap and detailed ongoing preparations ahead of polling day. Officials stressed that all measures are being implemented in accordance with both regional and international best practices, with a focus on ensuring that the elections are conducted peacefully, fairly, and with integrity.
“The Electoral Commission remains committed to upholding transparency, fairness, and accountability throughout the entire electoral process,” Commission representatives stated. “Our preparations are guided by established electoral frameworks and the lessons drawn from previous elections to guarantee credible outcomes.”
The presence of the observer mission underscores the importance of regional cooperation in strengthening democratic processes. Election observers are tasked with monitoring compliance with electoral laws, assessing transparency in the electoral process, and providing recommendations that enhance overall credibility. Their observations are essential not only for verifying the integrity of the elections but also for fostering public confidence in the democratic system.
H.E. Goodluck Jonathan and his team emphasised the value of open engagement with national institutions, noting that collaboration between election management bodies and international observers is critical in promoting peaceful, well-administered elections. “Transparent and credible elections are a cornerstone of democracy. Our mission is to support Uganda in achieving an inclusive and accountable electoral process,” Jonathan remarked during the meeting.
The engagement also highlighted the Electoral Commission’s openness to scrutiny and its determination to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process. By actively engaging with representatives from the African Union, COMESA, and IGAD, the Commission demonstrated a commitment to upholding democratic standards and fostering trust among Ugandan citizens and the international community.
Observers noted that the mission’s presence sends a strong message about the importance of regional oversight in national elections. It also reflects the collective efforts of African institutions to promote peace, stability, and adherence to democratic principles during electoral cycles.
Officials from the Commission confirmed that the institution is implementing a range of measures, including voter education campaigns, logistical preparedness, and the strengthening of dispute resolution mechanisms. These steps are intended to ensure that all Ugandans can participate freely and safely in the 2026 elections.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue dialogue and collaboration in the lead-up to the elections. Both the Electoral Commission and the observer mission underscored the importance of maintaining transparency, encouraging civic engagement, and ensuring that the electoral process reflects the will of the people.
As Uganda moves closer to the 2026 General Elections, the continued involvement of regional partners and election observers is expected to reinforce public confidence, promote adherence to democratic norms, and contribute to a peaceful and credible voting process across the country.