EC Faces Shs623.9 Billion Funding Gap for 2026 General Elections

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Uganda has raised serious concerns regarding a substantial funding shortfall that threatens the successful conduct of the upcoming 2026 general elections. In a presentation made to the Committee on Legal and Parliamentary Affairs on January 17, 2025, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama urged Parliament to urgently address the Shs623.9 billion gap required for the elections.

Justice Byabakama emphasized the importance of the 2025/26 financial year, stating that it represents the final phase of implementing the General Elections Roadmap, with polling scheduled from January 12 to February 9, 2026. However, despite the critical timeline, the Commission has been allocated only Shs140.8 billion, falling short of the Shs764.7 billion needed to carry out its mandate effectively as outlined in Article 61 of the Constitution.

Among the urgent activities awaiting funding are:

• Completion of Lubowa Headquarters: A Shs62 billion funding gap is required to complete the new EC headquarters, which is essential for reducing costs associated with hiring venues for election activities.
• Voter Education Campaigns: Necessary for raising public awareness, these campaigns are unfunded.
• Production of Ballot Papers: Without adequate funding, the quality and distribution of ballot papers could be compromised.
• Recruitment and Training of Polling Officials: Essential for ensuring smooth election operations on the ground.

Justice Byabakama highlighted that Phase III of the General Elections Roadmap, which includes polling day activities and the tallying of results, also remains unfunded, requiring Shs450.2 billion. This phase is critical for the integrity and credibility of the elections.

Several MPs raised concerns regarding the independence of the EC, particularly involving security personnel such as District Internal Security Officers (DISO) and Gombola Internal Security Officer (GISO) in election processes. 

Hon. Patrick Nsanja of Ntenjeru County South questioned why the EC involves such security apparatus, fearing potential influence on electoral outcomes.

Moreover, Hon. Robert Ssekitoleeko (NUP, Bamunanika County, Luweero) questioned the handling of expired Ugandan identity cards, which could hinder voter registration and participation. Hon. Medard Sseggona (MP, Busiro County East) urged the EC to devise strategies to mitigate electoral violence.

Justice Byabakama responded to concerns regarding prisoners and Ugandans in the diaspora, stating that current Ugandan laws do not permit voting outside the country or in restricted areas like prisons. This decision has faced criticism from various stakeholders, including Hon. Santa Alum (UPC, Oyam District Woman Representative), who urged the EC to improve voter education, especially in underserved regions such as the northern parts of Uganda.

The EC’s concerns are a call to action for Parliament to allocate sufficient funds for a transparent and successful electoral process. Justice Byabakama stressed that without the necessary resources, the EC would struggle to meet its constitutional obligations effectively.

As the financial year progresses, the EC remains hopeful that Parliament will prioritize addressing the funding gap to ensure a free, fair, and credible election process in 2026.

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