IRCU 2026 Election Observation report скачать в хорошем качестве

IRCU 2026 Election Observation report

The 2026 General Elections unfolded in an environment defined less by open contestation than by control, caution, and calculated restraint. While voting took place across the country, it occurred within a political atmosphere marked by fear of escalation, restricted communication, and the pervasive presence of state security. 1. Communication Blackout In the evening of 13 th January, two days before polling, the government-imposed internet shutdown significantly altered the electoral environment. By polling day, many communities across Uganda were operating with limited access to information beyond their immediate surroundings. In areas such as Kampala, Wakiso, Mukono, and parts of Luwero, voters and party agents reported uncertainty about developments outside their polling stations, including voting progress, incidents, or official updates. The absence of social media and messaging platforms removed an important channel through which citizens, observers, and party agents normally share information and cross-check events. As a result, polling stations functioned in isolation rather than as part of a wider, visible national process. This reduced opportunities for real-time verification and public scrutiny. The communication restrictions had implications on both electoral integrity and political participation. Limited access to communication constrained coordination among observers, party agents, and election officials thus weakening accountability mechanisms. In an environment where trust in the electoral process was already fragile, restricted information flows increased suspicion and allowed rumours to circulate without timely clarification and redress. 2. Operational Inconsistencies Delayed Opening of Polling Stations and declaration of results In parts of Kampala and Wakiso, several polling stations opened late due to delays in the delivery of election materials and failures of biometric voter verification kits. These delays disrupted voting schedules and resulted into long waiting time, particularly affecting elderly voters and women with young children. In some cases, voters left polling stations before casting their ballots. 3 Unclear Use of Manual Procedures Where biometric systems failed, some polling officials resorted to manual voting procedures without providing clear explanations to voters. This lack of communication created confusion and frustration, as voters were unsure whether proper procedures were being followed. Result Management Failures Across several districts, including Alebtong, Kibanda, Ibanda, Rubaga South in Kampala, results management faced serious challenges that undermined confidence in the electoral process. Key problems included missing ballot boxes, discrepancies between polling stations, declaration forms and aggregated results, and vote counts exceeding the number of registered voters. There have been reported disputes between polling officials and party agents over access, positioning, and visibility during counting. While counting proceeded, it often prioritized order over transparency, limiting the ability of stakeholders to verify the process. Recommendations Electoral Commission The Electoral Commission should strengthen consistency and transparency in the management of polling and results. Where elections are annulled or fresh polls ordered, clear public explanations should be issued promptly, detailing the specific failures and corrective measures taken. Security Agencies Security deployments during elections should be guided by proportionality, neutrality, and restraint. While the prevention of violence is critical, heavy or intrusive presence around polling stations risks suppressing participation and creating fear among citizens. Security agencies should prioritize voter protection over deterrence optics. Civic and Digital Space The restriction of internet access during the electoral period limited transparency, coordination, and independent verification. IRCU urges the Government to review the use of blanket communication restrictions during elections and to pursue approaches that protect national security without undermining civic trust and electoral accountability. Political Actors Political parties and candidates should recommit to peaceful participation in the electoral process, including respect for electoral procedures and lawful dispute resolution mechanisms. At the same time, they bear responsibility to refrain from actions that heighten tensions at polling stations or during tallying. Role of Faith Leaders and Communities Faith leaders have a critical role in truth-telling without incitement. Religious institutions should continue to promote peaceful engagement while also speaking clearly against injustice, manipulation, and exclusion. Silence in the face of credible integrity concerns risks normalizing them.