Summary:
- Justice Byabakama expressed concerns over vote bribery among aspiring candidates, a practice he said undermines Uganda’s democracy.
KISORO: The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, has called on voters in Kisoro District to resist vote bribery ahead of the by-elections for the Woman Member of Parliament and local government councilors.
The Woman MP seat fell vacant following the tragic death of Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, the State Minister for Defense and Veteran Affairs, on September 7th, 2024. The by-elections are scheduled for November 14th, 2024. In addition, the Chahafi Male Youth Councilor resigned, and both the councilor representing older persons and the councilor representing people with disabilities in Northern Division, Kisoro Municipality, passed away. Polling for these special interest groups is set for November 11th.
During a consultative meeting held at Shaaza Playground in Kisoro Municipality on Thursday, Justice Byabakama expressed concerns over vote bribery among aspiring candidates, a practice he said undermines Uganda’s democracy. He condemned bribery as illegal and unconstitutional, urging voters to reject it, pointing out that voters are often bribed with insignificant amounts.
Justice Byabakama emphasized the importance of cooperation for peaceful by-elections and called on the public to honor the late Hon. Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi by ensuring a fair election. He also urged stakeholders to assist in updating the National Voters’ Register and verifying voter details to prevent disenfranchisement. He stressed the need for public education and voter mobilization to ensure a successful election. Additionally, he welcomed applications for accredited election observers, emphasizing the importance of neutrality in upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
CUE IN BYABAKAMA…. ON VOTER BRIBERY…..RR.ENG//
Meanwhile, stakeholders thanked the Electoral Commission for its efforts, although some expressed concerns about challenges in the district, such as poor network connectivity. Aspiring candidates also voiced mixed reactions to the 12-day campaign period, saying it was too short to reach all voters across the district.
CUE IN ASPIRANTS…….VOX POP……RR//
