Religious Council cautions EC on 2021 elections

ELECTIONS   POLITICS 

KAMPALA - The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) has asked the Electoral Commission (EC) to be impartial while conducting the 2020/2021 electoral processes.

The concern was raised during a meeting between the commission and the leaders of the IRCU. 

The EC led by its chairman, Justice Byabakama were briefing the council on the progress of the implementation of the road map. The meeting was held at IRCU offices in Mengo in Kampala.

The chairperson of IRCU Sheikh Shaban Mubajje tasked the Commission to diligently and judiciously discharge their responsibilities for the common good in the electoral process.

"In this regard we expect you to be impartial, honest and serve above self, not just working for individuals, parties or groups of people, but the entire nation," Mubajje said.

He added; "it is reassuring that in some countries, such as Kenya and Malawi, electoral bodies are boldly reasserting independence."

Other IRCU leaders who were present include Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stanley Ntagali, Archbishop of Orthodox Church, Yona Lwanga, Presiding Apostle Dr. Joseph Serwadda of the Born Again Churches and Archbishop Cyprian Lwanga of Kampala dioceses.

Mubajje recognised the challenges the commission is encountering in the execution of its work.  Some of the challenges he noticed are limited funding, infiltration by the security forces, delayed amendments of the electoral laws and a politically charged environment characterized by suspicions from all sides.

 "This taints the EC's image due to allegations of mismanagement of election, vote-rigging and lack of fair play," he said. 

IRCU advised the Commission to work on the public relations to improve their image.

Byabakama assured the IRCU that they were going to work hand in hand in the implementation of the electoral processes.

They agreed to work together on nine action areas which include the joint organization of Presidential debate.

The parties also agreed that IRCU utilizes its media network to promote voter awareness and peace messages to achieve participatory and credible elections.