The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has called for the early deployment of the East African Community (EAC) Election Observation Mission ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections. The UHRC emphasizes that the campaign period poses significant risks to human rights and urges that the mission start sooner than initially planned.
Why EAC Election Observers Are Crucial
Mariam Wangadya, Chairperson of UHRC, stressed the importance of observing the electoral process beyond polling day. “The campaign period is the most sensitive time and shapes the entire electoral trajectory,” she said. The Commission recommends that the mission extend its presence until around January 29, 2026, to ensure that the rising political tensions and misinformation during the festive season are properly monitored.
Human Rights at the Forefront
The UHRC has been actively monitoring the electoral process, having completed a nationwide mapping of potential hotspots for election-related tensions. This data will guide deployment strategies and help set up early-warning systems. UHRC is also in ongoing dialogue with security agencies to ensure lawful and proportionate policing during the elections, fostering a peaceful and fair election environment.
Support for EAC Election Mission
EAC election observers,UHRC is ready to support the EAC mission by providing real-time data from its Human Rights Election Situation Room and offering coordination between state institutions and other observer groups. Wangadya expressed her readiness for collaboration, saying, “We welcome the EAC mission and encourage it to walk with us throughout this critical electoral moment.”
