The Electoral Commission has again extended deadline for the general update of National Voters’ Register from tomorrow Tuesday 17th December 2019 for seven (7) more days, ending on Monday 23rd December 2019, after which, there will be no further extension.
In a statement dated 16th December 2019 issued by Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi (pictured), the Chairperson, Electoral Commission, said EC once again received several requests from numerous stakeholders in the electoral process, and recommendations from their own field staff for a further extension of the period for the General Update of the National Voters’ Register.
“This exercise will continue to be conducted at update stations in each parish throughout Uganda, starting from 8:00am to 6:00pm, throughout the extended period, including weekends,” Byabakama said.
Among the reasons for a further extension include the unfavorable weather conditions in many parts of the country and high turn up of applicants at update stations.
“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 added.
The Electoral Commission appointed the period of the general update of National Voters’ Register for purposes of the 2020/2021 General Elections. The exercise commenced on Thursday 21st November 2019 and was scheduled to close on Wednesday 11th December 2019.
However, towards the close of the update exercise the Commission observed big numbers of applicants at the update centers across the Country and also received requests for extension from various stakeholders in the electoral process and thus extended the deadline to Tuesday 17th December 2019.
“Please note that such a voter who wishes to transfer to a new voting location must present confirmation that he/she originates from or is, at the time of application for transfer, a resident of the Parish of that (new) voting location. Such applicants should ensure they have details of their previous voting location,” EC says.
The Electoral Commission has availed the National Voters’ Register for each polling station at the Update center in each parish, so that existing voters check and confirm their registration status, that is, whether their particulars are well-captured.
“The Electoral Commission urges all eligible persons who are not yet registered as voters, and those who wish to apply for transfer of voting location, to use this VERY LAST opportunity, and do so, in order to participate in the General Elections,” Byabakama said.
