The Electoral Commission (EC) has kicked off the display of demarcated Local Government Council Electoral Areas in West Nile, a vital step in preparing for the 2025/2026 General Elections. The display, running from January 13th to January 20th, 2025, aims to ensure fair and accurate representation for Directly-elected Councilors and Women Councilors forming one-third of Local Government Councils.This exercise is crucial for a region like West Nile, which encompasses 11 districts and a growing population of over 3 million residents, according to the 2024 National Census.
The region has consistently emphasized the need for fair representation due to its ethnic diversity and unique challenges, including underdeveloped infrastructure and limited access to social services.Accuracy and TransparencyThe display aims to ensure the boundaries of Sub-counties, Towns, Divisions, and Parishes/Wards are clearly defined to avoid disputes during elections.
Mr. Alfred Andoga, a retired teacher and resident of Koboko District, said,
“Clear boundaries reduce tensions during elections. In the past, we have seen conflicts arise because people did not know which councilor represents their area. This step will help avoid such confusion.”
The EC’s initiative will also validate the accuracy of administrative units in West Nile. The region has witnessed the creation of several new Town Councils and Parishes since the last election, including Arivu Town Council in Arua District and Ewanga Parish in Madi-Okollo District. These changes have caused anxiety among voters, with some unsure about their electoral areas.Local Voices on Election PreparationsIn Arua City, Ms. Jackline Atim, a women’s rights activist, applauded the EC’s efforts, particularly the emphasis on Women Councilors.
“This exercise is an opportunity to ensure that women get fair representation. We need to see more women elected in key positions at local government levels,” she said.
Meanwhile, in Nebbi District, concerns were raised about the accessibility of display centers. Mr. Yoweri Okema, a farmer in Panyimur Sub-county, said,
“Many people in rural areas might not make it to the centers to check the lists. The EC needs to involve local leaders to inform the people.”
To address this, the EC has partnered with local radio stations such as Radio Pacis and Voice of Life FM to publicize the display exercise and encourage residents to participate.
The Push for Free and Fair Elections. The display exercise is a critical step in the broader push for transparent elections in 2025/2026. The EC has pledged to ensure fairness and accountability, and local leaders are optimistic about the process.Hon. Samuel Ondoma, the LC V Chairperson of Zombo District, emphasized the importance of inclusivity
. “West Nile must not be left behind in the journey to fair elections. The EC should ensure that every parish, even in hard-to-reach areas, is included in the demarcation and has representation,” he said.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist. Limited voter education and logistical issues are major concerns. Mr. Ibrahim Ayesiga, a youth leader in Yumbe District, noted that many young voters are unaware of the electoral process.
“We need more civic education to prepare first-time voters. Many youths in West Nile are eager to participate but don’t fully understand the importance of this display exercise,” he explained.
Additionally, some residents worry about the fairness of representation in newly created administrative units. Dr. Maria Acayo, a lecturer at Muni University, pointed out that resource allocation must be considered in tandem with boundary demarcation.
“Representation is meaningless without resources. The government must ensure that these units receive funding to function effectively,” she said.
As the January 20th deadline approaches, the EC has urged all residents of West Nile to verify their electoral areas and report any discrepancies to their local EC offices. The region’s leaders have called for unity and vigilance during this critical phase, ensuring the foundations are laid for peaceful and credible elections in 2025/2026.The people of West Nile now await the next steps in the electoral roadmap, with hopes that their voices will be fairly represented at all levels of government.
story Credit https://www.independent.co.ug/countdown-to-2026-uganda-electoral-commission-to-display-electoral-areas/
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