Ugandans are set to conclude voting at the local government level tomorrow, with authorities assuring the public of tight security and a smooth electoral process across the country. In Mukono District, leaders, candidates, and security officials have appealed to voters to turn up in large numbers and participate peacefully in the exercise.
As preparations for the final stage begin, the Mukono District Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Hajjat Fatumah Ndisaba Nabittaka, has issued a stern warning to individuals intending to disrupt the voting process. She emphasised that security agencies, including the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), have been fully deployed across all sub-counties to maintain law and order.
“As head of security in Mukono District, we have already finalised our deployment plans. All sub-counties will have police and army personnel. In case of any incident, the police will lead the army in maintaining law and order,” Hajjat Ndisaba said.
She warned that anyone found causing chaos will be arrested immediately, stressing that authorities will not tolerate interference with voters' democratic rights.
The RDC explained that the heavy deployment is aimed at preventing a repeat of the disorder witnessed during past elections and ensuring a peaceful, orderly, and credible voting process. She called on residents to respect the rights of others and allow citizens to freely choose leaders of their leaders without intimidation or violence.
Hajjat Ndisaba further urged Ugandans, particularly residents of Mukono, to actively participate in the local government elections, noting that these polls are critical to service delivery at the grassroots level. She emphasised that local government leaders are directly responsible for implementing government programs and policies that affect daily life.
“These are the leaders who work closest to the people—from the village, parish, and sub-county to town councils. They are responsible for implementing government programs, managing feeder roads, water extension projects, electricity access, education oversight, and community by-laws,” she said.
She added that leaders such as LC III chairpersons play a key role in appointing land committees, school management committees, and other bodies that directly impact community development.
She cautioned voters against voter apathy, noting that failure to vote often results in electing incompetent leaders. “If you don’t vote, you may later regret it when services are not delivered. This is where service delivery begins,” she stressed, calling on eligible voters to make it a point to participate.
Meanwhile, Stephen Kyamaggwa, an independent candidate contesting for the position of Chairperson, Mukono Central Division, said candidates have already done their part during the campaign period and now look to voters to exercise their right.
“Campaigns are over. We have reached out to the people of Mukono Central Division over the past two months, and many have promised us their support based on our ideas,” Kyamaggwa said.
He urged voters to turn up in large numbers and elect leaders who will address key community needs such as road maintenance, sanitation, and healthcare.
Kyamaggwa also appealed to security personnel to act professionally and avoid interference in the electoral process. He assured his supporters that measures have been put in place to guard against electoral malpractice and ensure transparency in vote counting and declaration of results.
Other contestants, including councillors Fred Kiyimba and Hassan Kyanda, echoed similar sentiments, calling on security agencies to remain neutral and allow a free and fair election.
Leaders in Mukono Municipality also weighed in on the importance of the exercise. Bishop Dr Samuel Lwandasa emphasised that local governments are the closest institutions to the people and play a vital role in addressing everyday community challenges. He expressed concern over low voter turnout in previous elections, noting that many citizens fail to vote despite the direct impact local leaders have on their lives.
On the logistical front, voting materials arrived at the Mukono District Electoral Commission offices last night. The District Returning Officer, Emily Amongi, confirmed the delivery and assured voters that all arrangements are in place for the voting process to conclude smoothly tomorrow.
Authorities have once again urged the public to maintain peace, follow electoral guidelines, and participate responsibly as the country concludes the local government elections.
