Commercialization of Votes Takes Center Stage in Kisoro District Woman MP By-Election

Summary:

• Jimmy Akena, President of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), expressed his concern after witnessing the desperation of Kisoro residents who were demanding money in exchange for their votes.

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KISORO: Despite internal divisions within the NRM Party, the commercialization of votes has become the central issue in the Kisoro District Woman Member of Parliament by-election, with many voters demanding compensation for their support.

A significant number of voters have made it clear that their votes come at a price, with many requesting “Igyihumbi,” which translates to UGX 1,000. This demand has placed candidates under intense pressure as they navigate various campaign trails.

According to the Commercialization of Parliamentary Elections in Uganda publication by the East African Journal of Peace and Human Rights, Uganda lacks a comprehensive regulatory framework for election campaign financing. This absence has led to the commercialization of election campaigns, which in turn has undermined the quality of leadership in the National Assembly.

The publication further reveals that the commercialization of elections has eroded the accountability between electors and the elected, violating the electorate’s right to human dignity. Additionally, it has stunted the development of sustainable parliamentary governance. To address these issues, the publication advocates for the establishment of a comprehensive law on election campaign financing. If enacted and enforced, such a law would help mitigate the harmful effects of vote commercialization.

During a campaign rally for Mable Ingabire (UPC) in Muramba Sub County and Bunagana Town Council, Jimmy Akena, President of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), expressed his concern after witnessing the desperation of Kisoro residents who were demanding money in exchange for their votes. Akena criticized the commercialization of votes, calling it a troubling reflection of the country’s current political state.

CUE IN AKENA…….ON VOTE COMMERCIALIZATION…….ENG//

Jack Sabiiti, Chairman of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), also criticized the growing trend of vote commercialization, not just in Kisoro but across much of Uganda. He pointed the finger at the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) Party, which, he claimed, has long used financial incentives to influence voters a practice that has become especially prevalent during election periods.

CUE IN SABIITI…….ON THE ISSUE…..ENG//

The by-election, scheduled for November 14, 2024, is expected to be highly competitive. Candidates from various parties, including Salim Sultana (NUP), Aisha Cyimpaye (PPP), Juliet Musanase (FDC), and Mable Ingabire (UPC), are vying for the seat.

This by-election follows the passing of Sarah Mateke Nyirabashitsi, the former Kisoro Woman MP and State Minister for Defence and Veteran Affairs, in early September.