Uganda's election body just told voters to leave polling stations immediately. The Electoral Commission warned that remaining after casting ballots risks triggering chaos and undermining public order. Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama stated their guidance is rooted in law and aims to prevent disorder, not manipulate outcomes.
Byabakama remarked that excessive worry over vote rigging was unnecessary. He explained that while voters may legally stay meters away from the polling table, prolonged congregation of rival supporters often leads to tension and potential violence. Past experience shows these gatherings can spark clashes.
The Commission advises people to return home after voting and come back later for the counting process. Byabakama emphasized that this promotes peace, noting that candidate agents are allowed to remain inside stations throughout the day. He insisted the goal is preventing violence, not favoring any candidate.
Opposition figure Bobi Wine has repeatedly accused the Commission of bias. He urges supporters to stay at polling stations as a form of protest and vigilance, citing previous electoral disputes. The Electoral Commission maintains that leaving promptly is the safest approach for avoiding clashes and ensuring a peaceful process.
Byabakama remarked that excessive worry over vote rigging was unnecessary. He explained that while voters may legally stay meters away from the polling table, prolonged congregation of rival supporters often leads to tension and potential violence. Past experience shows these gatherings can spark clashes.
The Commission advises people to return home after voting and come back later for the counting process. Byabakama emphasized that this promotes peace, noting that candidate agents are allowed to remain inside stations throughout the day. He insisted the goal is preventing violence, not favoring any candidate.
Opposition figure Bobi Wine has repeatedly accused the Commission of bias. He urges supporters to stay at polling stations as a form of protest and vigilance, citing previous electoral disputes. The Electoral Commission maintains that leaving promptly is the safest approach for avoiding clashes and ensuring a peaceful process.
