Mbale City, Uganda – The Office of the National Chairman (ONC) continues to play a vital role in strengthening democracy and ensuring that citizens’ concerns are heard, following a high-level engagement between ONC leaders and the Electoral Commission in Mbale City.
The ONC Regional Coordinator for Bugisu, Hajjat Namasaba Jalia, accompanied by Allan Wokalo and Wandulu Zaid, met with the Assistant Registrar of the Electoral Commission to seek clarification on concerns raised by residents from Kiduda Cell and Doko Cell in Namatala Industrial City Division, as well as Nakaloke III Cell in Afia Ward, Northern City Division, and Namanyonyi.
The concerns stemmed from the recently concluded LC1 elections, including the contest between Yusuf and Edith in Doko Cell, where Edith was declared the winner. Some residents and candidates expressed dissatisfaction with the conduct and outcomes of the elections, prompting ONC leaders to seek guidance from the Electoral Commission.
During the meeting, the Assistant Registrar emphasized that all elections must be conducted using the official voters’ register as stipulated by electoral guidelines. He explained that in some areas, elections were interrupted due to misunderstandings, disputes, and physical confrontations, forcing electoral officials to suspend or cancel the process before later providing opportunities for re-elections where circumstances allowed.
He further clarified that candidates or voters who are dissatisfied with election results have legal avenues available to pursue justice. Such individuals may record statements with the police and seek redress through the courts. If a court finds merit in the complaints, a judge may order fresh elections. Additionally, the Electoral Commission may authorize a repeat election where necessary and in accordance with the law.
Speaking after the meeting, Hajjat Namasaba Jalia urged residents to remain calm and embrace lawful mechanisms for resolving electoral disputes.
She reaffirmed ONC’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of ordinary citizens are heard and that concerns affecting communities are addressed through dialogue, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.