AU, COMESA, and IGAD attest to peaceful polling in Uganda
In a joint assessment, the African Union (AU) observers, alongside regional organizations COMESA and IGAD, stated they did not find evidence of ballot stuffing during Uganda’s presidential election. The observers visited multiple polling stations across the country and described the voting process as peaceful, orderly, and generally compliant with established procedures.
The delegation emphasized that their preliminary findings point to a well-organized electoral process, with polling staff adhering to established rules and voting procedures. While acknowledging the complexity of elections in any country, the observers noted no immediate or systemic irregularities that would suggest foul play or manipulation of the ballots at the point of voting.
What the observers looked for
As part of their rapid assessment, AU, COMESA, and IGAD teams monitored several aspects of the electoral process, including:
- Access to polling stations and the orderly conduct of voters
- Transparency in ballot handling and counting procedures
- Compliance with rules regarding voter identification and eligibility
- Overall security at polling venues to maintain a calm and safe environment
The joint statement indicated that the observers focused on real-time, on-the-ground observations rather than relying solely on secondary reports. This approach helps provide a factual baseline on election day conduct while still recognizing the need for continued monitoring as results are tallied and transmitted.
Implications for Uganda’s electoral landscape
Officials and local citizens alike often view the presence of international observers as a testament to the seriousness with which Uganda treats its electoral integrity. A peaceful voting process can reinforce public confidence in the outcome and encourage broader participation in future elections. The observers’ early assessments may also influence international and regional perceptions of Uganda’s commitment to democratic norms.
While the initial observations are positive, analysts caution that the assessment represents a snapshot of polling day. The broader electoral process — including vote counting, results transmission, and any potential disputes — will require continued monitoring and transparent reporting to sustain credibility.
What comes next
AU, COMESA, and IGAD typically publish comprehensive reports after elections, detailing strengths, challenges, and recommendations. Stakeholders can expect findings that address procedural adherence, voter access, and the fairness of the counting process. If subsequent reviews identify areas for improvement, these organizations often advocate reforms designed to enhance transparency, participation, and resilience in future polls.
For Ugandan voters, the emphasis on peaceful, orderly polling reinforces a sense of participation in a process that affects not only national leadership but also the country’s relations with regional bodies and international partners.
