EC condemns monetisation of politics

The Electoral Commission (EC) has condemned monetisation of politics ahead of 2021 general election, saying it distorts democracy.
Justice Simon Byabakama, the chairperson of the EC, yesterday said commercialisation of politics has not only distorted democracy in the country but also blocked capable leaders from contesting.
“In this country there is this argument that because our politics has been so commercialised, it therefore means that if you do not have the money even if you have the required competencies to lead, you cannot participate,” he said.
He made the remarks during the launch of the EC gender strategy in Kampala yesterday.
However, Mr Kigozi Sebaggala, a commissioner at the EC, called upon government to increase nomination fees for the candidates as it will bringing on board potential leaders.
“If you want the President to be nominated at Shs5 million, then what kind of President are we going to get? I think it should be raised from Shs20 million to Shs100 million for President, MPs from Shs3 million to Shs10 million,” Mr Sebaggala said.
But Mr Sebaggala’s proposal does not rhyme with the electoral body’s gender strategy.
Women activists claimed high nomination fees is one of the reason prohibiting women from involving in politics.
The gender strategy aims at support the EC in becoming a gender responsive and inclusive institution by providing a framework for mainstreaming gender equality in planning, management and practices.