Kampala, Uganda: The Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, has cautioned voters against remaining at polling stations after casting their ballots, warning that such conduct could trigger disorder and undermine public order during the January 15, 2026, general elections.
Byabakama’s warning follows repeated calls by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, the National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate, urging supporters to stay at polling stations after voting to “protect the vote.”
Addressing journalists on Friday, the EC boss said the guidance is grounded in the law and informed by past electoral experience, not an attempt to influence outcomes.
“You are losing sleep and even failing to eat because you are worried that your victory will be rigged if you do not stay at the polling station after voting. You are going to die of pressure for no reason,” Byabakama said.
He explained that although the law permits voters to remain at least 20 metres away from the polling table, prolonged congregation of supporters from rival political camps has, in previous elections, led to tension and occasional violence.
“Based on experience from previous elections, when people who support different candidates stay in the same place for hours, can anyone guarantee that chaos will not break out?” he asked.
Byabakama stressed that the Commission’s advice for voters to leave after voting is aimed at preserving peace and order.
“When it is time for counting, you can return and witness the process. We are encouraging this to prevent disorder and violence—not because we intend to rig the vote in favour of any candidate. Your agents are present, and they are allowed to remain inside the polling station throughout the day,” he said.
Bobi Wine has repeatedly accused the EC of bias, citing the 2021 elections in which he lost to Yoweri Museveni. Ahead of the 2026 polls, he has urged supporters to turn out in large numbers, vote, and remain at polling stations as a form of vigilance.
While the Presidential Elections Act allows voters to stay within 20 metres of polling areas, the EC maintains that returning home immediately after voting is the safest way to avoid clashes and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
