Here is what needs to be done to reduce election petitions
A transparent and credible electoral process is the most effective way to minimise post-election litigation.
Election petitions have become an increasingly common feature of Uganda’s electoral process, largely due to allegations of irregularities and non-compliance with electoral laws.
While the courts play an important role in resolving disputes, greater emphasis should be placed on preventing these issues before election results are declared.
A transparent and credible electoral process is the most effective way to minimise post-election litigation.
The following measures can help strengthen the integrity of elections and reduce the number of election petitions:
Strict voter verification: Only registered voters whose names appear on the official voters’ register should be allowed to vote. No individual should cast a ballot unless their identity and registration have been properly verified.
Voting at designated polling stations: Voters should only vote at their assigned polling stations. Voting outside one’s designated electoral area should only be permitted where expressly provided for by law.
Eliminating voter bribery: Electoral authorities should strictly enforce laws against voter bribery and ensure that offenders face appropriate legal penalties. Free and fair elections cannot thrive where votes are bought.
Preventing ballot stuffing and electoral fraud: Ballot stuffing, multiple voting, and any form of vote manipulation should be treated as serious electoral offences and investigated promptly.
Proper ballot issuance: Every eligible voter should receive only one ballot paper for each elective position they are entitled to vote for. Election officials must adhere to established verification and accountability procedures throughout the voting process.
Commitment to transparency:Political parties, candidates, election officials, security agencies, and election observers all have a shared responsibility to uphold transparency, fairness, and accountability at every stage of the electoral process.
Free, fair, and transparent elections strengthen public trust in democratic institutions. When electoral laws are consistently enforced and the voting process is conducted with integrity, disputes are significantly reduced, public confidence is enhanced, and the number of election petitions is likely to decline.
Mr. Baluye Michael Waiswa is the ONC Coordinator, Buyende District.
