The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has taken a major step toward strengthening democracy and protecting human rights by launching a nationwide Election Watch and Rapid Response Mechanism ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
The initiative, unveiled under the Society’s constitutional and statutory mandate, is aimed at promoting free, fair, and credible elections while safeguarding the rule of law, civil liberties, and public confidence in Uganda’s electoral process.
Speaking on behalf of the Society, ULS Vice President Asiimwe Anthony emphasized that elections are a cornerstone of constitutional democracy and directly affect the enjoyment of fundamental rights such as freedom of expression, assembly, personal liberty, and access to justice.
He noted that the legal profession has a duty to actively engage during this critical constitutional moment.
Nationwide Legal Monitoring and Observation
Under the Election Watch framework, ULS has opened participation to its members across the country to serve as election observers and legal monitors. Advocates will be deployed at polling stations and campaign activities to observe electoral processes, document incidents, and report developments in real time using a standardized reporting system.
The reports will form a credible evidence base for timely legal intervention, engagement with authorities, and pursuit of justice where violations occur.
To support this effort, ULS has also established a central Election Monitoring Unit that will coordinate observation, analyze reports, and guide legal responses throughout the electoral period.
Rapid Response and Free Legal Aid for the Public
In a move welcomed by civil society and the general public, the Uganda Law Society has constituted a Rapid Response Team of advocates across the country to provide instant pro bono legal services during the elections.
A toll-free hotline — 0800 355 355 — has been activated and will operate throughout the electoral period. Members of the public can use the line to:
- Request urgent legal assistance
- Report human rights violations, including unlawful arrests, detention, violence, or intimidation
- Report violations affecting journalists, political actors, and voters
Upon receiving a report, ULS will immediately link affected persons to an advocate in their locality or deploy appropriate legal interventions to secure their rights and safety.
Promoting Accountability and the Rule of Law
The overarching goal of the Election Watch and Rapid Response Mechanism is to promote accountability, deter impunity, and strengthen the rule of law during the 2026 General Elections.
Specifically, the initiative seeks to:
- Document and preserve credible evidence of electoral and human rights violations
- Provide timely legal support to victims
- Ensure visible legal presence throughout the electoral process
- Pursue legal action against perpetrators, whether acting individually or institutionally
ULS reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that victims of electoral violence and abuse access justice and appropriate remedies in accordance with the law.
Call to Action for Legal Professionals
The Uganda Law Society has also issued a clarion call to its members nationwide to actively participate in the initiative by reporting electoral malpractices and illegalities through reporting forms that will be shared via official email channels.
“This is the best way advocates can serve humanity and cement their relevance to society,” Asiimwe said, urging members of the Bar to rise to the occasion in defence of democracy.
Standing with Ugandans
The Uganda Law Society reiterated its unwavering commitment to stand with the people of Uganda in defence of human dignity, constitutionalism, and democratic governance.
“Through this initiative, ULS will play an active, professional, and principled role in ensuring the 2026 General Elections are conducted in an environment that respects the rule of law,” the statement concluded.
