EC launches nationwide campaign to register PWDs for 2025/26 elections
Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, highlighted the importance of locating and registering PWDs at the village level to create accurate registers for Special Interest Group elections.
The Electoral Commission of Uganda has announced a nationwide campaign to identify and register Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) on the National Voters Register, scheduled to run from November 4th to 13th, 2024.
This initiative aims to ensure that all eligible voters, regardless of ability, are fully able to participate in the upcoming 2025/2026 General Elections.
Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, highlighted the importance of locating and registering PWDs at the village level to create accurate registers for Special Interest Group elections.
This initiative marks a significant step toward inclusive electoral participation, allowing PWDs equal opportunity to engage in Uganda’s democratic process.
The exercise will categorize PWDs by specific needs, including physical, hearing, and visual disabilities, deaf-blindness, mental disabilities, albinism, little people, and multiple disabilities. By mapping these categories, the Electoral Commission aims to gain a detailed understanding of PWDs’ needs and provide suitable support.
Village Local Councils and Parish Supervisors will play a central role, conducting meetings at the village level to identify, verify, and register PWDs.
The exercise will allow PWDs to confirm their registration status and update their information as needed. Additionally, the Commission will identify and address barriers hindering PWD participation in elections.
Expected outcomes include a verified PWD Register, detailed data on disability categories per village and parish, accessible voter education materials, and polling stations positioned conveniently for those with physical disabilities.
The Electoral Commission calls on PWDs, local leaders, and civil society organizations to support this effort, which aligns with Uganda’s constitutional commitment to equal voting rights.
By fostering inclusive participation, the Electoral Commission reinforces Uganda’s democratic values and human rights principles, working towards a lasting legacy of equality in future elections.
