More than 100 election observers under the Ushahidi Foundation have undergone training to prepare them to observe Uganda’s forthcoming general elections in January 2026.
The training focused on the role of accredited observers, their conduct at polling stations and how to report irregularities.
Jacinta Kasozi, an official from the Electoral Commission (EC), told the trainees that observers must strictly follow the law and respect the limits of their mandate.
“As observers, you must know your limits and avoid taking on the roles of presiding or polling officials,” Kasozi said.
She explained that observers are expected to watch the voting process, record what happens at polling stations and submit their findings to the EC within six months after polling day.
Kasozi also reminded the trainees that observers are not allowed to speak to the media about the elections. This position has previously been emphasised by the EC chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, who has warned that unauthorised public commentary by observers can lead to withdrawal of accreditation.
Faridah Lule, the executive director of Ushahidi Foundation, said the EC had assigned the organisation to observe elections in Kampala, Sembabule, Kayunga, Wakiso and Mukono districts.
She said the areas were selected because they contain several polling stations that have previously been identified as hotspots.
“In past elections, these districts recorded incidents and operational challenges,” Lule said. “We are more than ready to take on the observation role during the electoral process, and we shall submit a detailed report to the commission afterwards.”
Byonabye Kamadi, the director of research, education and documentation at the Uganda Human Rights Commission, highlighted the responsibilities and rights of citizens during elections.
He said voting, access to information and personal liberty are fundamental rights that must be respected throughout the process.
He also urged voters to follow the lawful procedures on polling day, saying this helps to reduce tension and protects the integrity of the election.
Election observation has become an important but contested part of Uganda’s electoral process. In previous elections, some local and international observer groups have complained of restrictions, including delayed accreditation, limited access to polling stations and, in some cases, being blocked from observing certain activities.
The EC has maintained that all observers must operate strictly within the law and the conditions of their accreditation.
