It is not time for campaigns - EC tells politicians

ELECTIONS   2021   CAMPAIGNS

The Electoral Commision (EC) has warned candidates aspiring for the 2021 elections against early campaigns, saying they are disruptive to public order in the country.

Without naming the culprits, EC noted that some candidates are disguising as parties consulting electorates in preparation for the 2021 elections to start early campaigns, which contravenes existing electoral laws, in particular the Presidential Elections Act 2005.

Some of the forms of early campaigns cited included aspirants organizing campaign meetings, addressing rallies, putting up posters, distributing campaign materials and soliciting for votes.

"At the moment in the electoral calendar, there are no persons nominated as candidates for presidential, parliamentary and local government council elections. All aspirants are therefore urged to refrain from engaging in active campaigns for these elective positions," read an EC statement signed by its chairperson, Simon Byabakama.

He noted that Section 3 of the Presidential Elections Act 2005 provides for aspirants to consult in preparation for nominations but they should be distinguished from campaigns which take the form of distributing materials, campaigns, holding rallies and meetings and canvassing / soliciting for votes.

"Ordinarily consultation is defined to mean exchange of views in an attempt to reach a decision. Accordingly the identified venue, mode and manner of the consultative meeting ought to facilitate the exchange of views between the aspirant and those being consulted," the statement read.

He clarified that consultative meetings and campaigns can however take place internally when political parties wish to choose the party flag bearers for various elective positions.

"Political parties and organisation are hereby advised to guide their members concerning such internal party electoral calendar, including issuing clear preparation," EC said.

In the same statement, Byabakama banned any form of processions on public roads, saying they are disruptive to public order.

According the electoral road map released in December, the presidential, parliamentary and local council election will be held in 2021.

 EC will need at least sh861b to organize the 2021 general elections. In the 2016, sh419 b was spent to organize the elections.