By Sekaggya Seka Moses
President Yoweri Museveni is reportedly planning a major overhaul of Uganda’s Electoral Commission (EC) following allegations of corruption and abuse of office.
EC Chairperson Simon Byabakama
This move comes just months after Museveni reorganized the commission’s leadership in January.
The president’s frustrations have grown after receiving a damning report from the Police’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID), revealing misconduct within the electoral body.
The report’s findings have shaken the leadership of the EC, putting Chairperson Simon Byabakama and Deputy Chairperson Aisha Lubega at risk of losing their positions once again.
However, sources suggest that lower-ranking officials may face the brunt of the upcoming changes as Museveni seeks to hold the commission accountable.
This isn’t the first time Museveni has taken decisive action against the EC. In the run-up to the 2021 elections, he dismissed key figures like EC Secretary Sam Rwakoojo and spokesperson Jotham Taremwa, citing inefficiencies.
Despite these moves, Museveni’s confidence in the commission appears to have deteriorated further, especially with under 16 months remaining until the 2026 general elections.
Museveni’s patience with the EC had already worn thin, and last month, he sent a veiled message about the commission’s credibility.
During a Thanksgiving event for former Chief of Defence Forces General Aronda Nyakairima, Museveni claimed that the Opposition National Unity Platform had engaged in rigging during the 2021 elections.
He stated that he had concrete evidence of the party’s wrongdoing, led by pop star-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi.
While the comment seemed aimed at the National Unity Platform, it also indirectly questioned the EC’s ability to ensure fair elections.
Museveni’s concerns about the EC’s integrity have been exacerbated by reports of corrupt deals with the national printery, resulting in losses estimated at Shs30 billion.
With Uganda’s seventh poll under the NRM era scheduled for January 2026, Museveni is expected to seek re-election.
The 80-year-old president, in power since 1986, has won the last six elections.
As he prepares for another term, Museveni wants to ensure the electoral process is above board.
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