The nomination exercise for candidates ahead of the 2026 general elections entered the final day in Kasese District with overwhelming turnout, as more than 200 aspirants from various political parties, including all contenders for the LCV chairperson seat, were still on the waiting list by 5:00PM on Thursday.
The nominations, taking place at Kasese Multipurpose Hall in Nyamwamba Division, have seen both excitement and frustration as candidates and their supporters throng the venue to secure a spot on the ballot.
Esther Kikama, the NRM woman district council flag bearer for Rukoki Sub-county, was among those awaiting completion of the process. She appealed to the Electoral Commission (EC) to consider extending the exercise to accommodate the large number of aspirants still pending.
“Many of us have faced challenges such as a limited number of data entrants and poor internet connectivity, which have slowed the process,” Kikama said. “This has forced candidates and their supporters to spend more than planned as they wait, but we are optimistic that everyone will eventually be cleared.”
CUE IN KIKAMA…..ON THE ISSUE…..RR//
Her call was echoed by seasoned politician Saul Maate, the District Chairperson of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) party, who observed that both data clerks and candidates struggled with the online document verification system.
“The process has been slow, but this should not discourage anyone. Candidates should remain patient and persistent until they are successfully nominated,” Maate advised.
CUE IN MAATE….ON THE ISSUE…..ENG//
In response to the concerns, Ismail Turkey, the Regional Electoral Commission Officer for the Mid-Western region, expressed appreciation for the strong candidate turnout and attributed some delays to incomplete documentation, especially among LCV aspirants.
“While many candidates are prepared, some have been failing to meet the required documentation,” Turkey said. “We assure the public that everyone on the list will be cleared before the end of the exercise tomorrow. We also encourage candidates to add alternative signatories for their nominators to avoid unnecessary delays.”
Turkey further called on all stakeholders to maintain peace, unity, and mutual respect throughout the exercise.
“The nomination process is not only a legal requirement but also a chance to show our commitment to democratic values. Let us embrace it in harmony for the good of our communities,” he emphasized.
CUE IN ISMAIL…..ON NOMINATION EXERCISE…..ENG//
As the deadline approaches, anticipation remains high in Kasese as candidates and supporters prepare for the final day of nominations, setting the stage for a competitive and vibrant 2026 general election season
The Source Reports.
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