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2026 elections: EC rules out further extension for voter registration
Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi. PHOTO/HANDOUT
What you need to know:
- EC boss Justice James Byabakama has urged the youth to avoid being manipulated during the upcoming election.
The Electoral Commission (EC) has confirmed that there will be no further extension for updating the national voters' register after the exercise concluded on February 17, 2025.
EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama made the announcement during a graduation ceremony in Kagadi District, where he commended the public for their participation.
“We have just concluded the exercise, and I want to thank those who turned out to register or transfer.”
“We are not considering any further extensions at this point,” Justice Byabakama said while addressing journalists in Kagadi District shortly after presiding over the graduation of over 2,000 graduates [youth] of Uganda Rural Development and Training Institute [URDTI].
The first extension, which lasted an additional seven days, was announced on February 10.
While the seven-day extension aimed to register 4 million voters, Justice Byabakama emphasized that voter registration was voluntary.
“The exercise is not compulsory; it’s up to the individual to decide whether to register,” he explained.
He added that the EC had fulfilled its duty by ensuring registration facilities were accessible across the country.
As of Tuesday evening, Byabakama had not received full feedback from the field regarding the impact of the extension.
“We’ll be informing the country soon about the final figures,” he said, noting that the exercise had focused on first-time voters and transfers.
Initially set to end on February 10, the registration period began on January 20, 2025, and was extended due to logistical challenges.
By February 10, 361,432 new voters had been added, and 292,021 voter transfer applications were received.
The National Voters Register stood at 19.9 million, excluding those added during the final extension.
In his message to over 2,000 graduates, Justice Byabakama urged the youth to avoid being manipulated during the upcoming election.
“Do not allow yourselves to be used as vigilantes or form groups for violence,” he advised, warning that some candidates may try to sway young voters with money.
He also stressed the importance of peaceful elections and encouraged youth to be ambassadors for peace in their communities.
Justice Byabakama further urged the youth to focus on the country's progress and to reject misinformation during the election period.
“Look at where we’ve come from, where we are now, and where we’re headed,” he said.
