NILE POST NEWS

Political party leaders in Acholi sub-region have welcomed the sensitization activities that are being conducted by the Electoral Commission in preparation for the 2026 general elections.

This comes after the EC chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, last August, launched a four-year strategic plan and roadmap ahead of the 2026 general elections. “The Electoral Commission seeks for voters to cast their ballot from villages that are less congested and easily accessible, especially the elderly voters,” says Edmond Misango, an EC administrator for Gulu District.

The activities have been recognized by both the party in power and those in opposition.

“our interest is that the people are sensitised so that each and every electorate will know their roles and responsibilities come 2026," Lamex Akena, an NRM party leader in Gulu, said. "NRM has always embraced democracy and a common understanding and that is why we allow for such activities to take place."

However, the FDC chairperson for Gulu, Christopher Acire, sees the activities as inconsequential, saying the Commission is not independent.

The Electoral Commission and its partners started the sensitisation barazas in Unyama in Gulu as they prepare the population for the electoral roadmap and activities. “It is not the first time the EC is coming up with an electoral road map, the question stands, why are cases of electoral violence, rigging intimidation and even death during election still happening?” asked Acire.

The civic is aimed at helping voters understand their rights, identify polling stations which need to be transferred and reduce voter bribery in the build up to the 2026 elections.

“The people need to be prepared for this forthcoming election because we want to recruit from all the parties,” says Justin Obol, the Democratic Party National Executive Committee representative for Acholi.