Uganda EC Initiates Voter Location Slips as 2026 Election Preparations Accelerate
The Electoral Commission of Uganda has kicked off a nationwide drive to issue Voter Location Slips (VLS) in preparation for the 2026 General Elections. The move comes as the commission seeks to boost voter confidence, improve turnout, and streamline the vote-counting process through a transparent, technology-assisted framework.
Voter Location Slips are designed to help voters identify their correct polling station and to verify their registration details ahead of election day. By distributing these slips early, the commission aims to reduce queue times and confusion on polling day, ensuring a smoother electoral experience for Ugandan citizens.
Assurance on Biometric Kits and Election Technology
Alongside the VLS rollout, the Commission reassured stakeholders that biometric verification equipment remains on schedule for deployment. The EC emphasized that the biometric kits will be available and tested to ensure a reliable, secure voting process. Officials highlighted ongoing training for poll staff on how to use the devices effectively, as well as contingency plans to address any technical hiccups that could arise during the election cycle.
What Voter Location Slips Include
The VLS are expected to carry essential information to help voters locate their designated polling stations. Typical data on the slips may include the voter’s name as registered, polling station name and code, ward and sub-county details, and a unique slip reference number. The slips are meant to guide voters to the right location and reduce movement errors, particularly for first-time voters and those who have recently relocated.
Impact on Voter Experience and Public Confidence
Experts say the VLS initiative could positively impact the overall voter experience by providing clear, locally relevant information well before election day. By demystifying where to vote and confirming registration status early, voters are less likely to encounter last-minute surprises. Civil society organizations and political parties have welcomed the move, noting that a well-informed electorate is essential for credible elections.
Biometric Verification: Security and Accessibility
The commitment to biometric verification is a cornerstone of the EC’s plan to enhance integrity and transparency. Biometric kits help ensure that ballots are cast by legitimate registrants and reduce the risk of impersonation. While some voters express concerns about data privacy and machine reliability, officials stress that strict safeguards and tested processes will govern the use of biometric data. Training sessions for local election staff are ongoing to familiarize them with the devices and to troubleshoot common issues before polling day.
Timeline and Next Steps
While issuing VLS marks an important milestone, the EC has not announced a fixed nationwide deadline for finalizing all slips. The rollout is expected to continue across districts, with additional support materials and helplines to assist voters who may encounter difficulties retrieving or understanding their slips. The commission also plans to publish regular updates on the VLS distribution and biometric kit readiness to keep the public informed.
What Voters Should Do Now
In the coming weeks, Ugandan voters are encouraged to check their registration status, verify their polling station, and remain attentive to official EC communications. Local polling stations and community leaders will be briefed on the distribution schedule, enabling residents to obtain their VLS and ask questions about the biometric verification process and other electoral procedures.
