Uganda’s Independent Electoral Commission (EC) has been undertaking the exercise of General Update of the National Voters’ Register in light of the forthcoming 2020/2021 General Elections.
The exercise, which began on Thursday 21st November 2019, was scheduled to close tomorrow, Wednesday 11th December 2019.
“However, due to higher numbers of applicants at the update centers since the beginning of this week, and requests from key stakeholders in the electoral process, the Electoral Commission has found it necessary and taken a decision to extend the update period, which was scheduled to close on Wednesday 11th December 2019, for five (5) more days, starting from Thursday 12th and ending Monday 16th December 2019, after which, there will be no further extension.” Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, the Chairperson of the electoral body said in a statement.
He added that the exercise will continue to be conducted at update stations in each parish throughout Uganda, starting from 8 am to 6 pm, throughout the extended period, including weekends.
“Please note that the purpose of this extension is to provide an opportunity for eligible persons who have not yet registered to do so.” Byabakama said.
He cautioned local leaders that are taking advantage of the process to fleece unsuspecting locals of their hard earned cash.
“The Electoral Commission has noted, with concern, reports of alleged extortion of money by some local leaders and update officials from applicants in order to sign on their applications before processing the applications. This is illegal, and the Commission strongly condemns it.” He warned.
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