The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, visited Kabale University for a significant engagement with students and staff, focusing on the crucial role of youth in Uganda’s electoral process. This event marked the beginning of the Commission’s nationwide outreach program aimed at fostering greater participation among young voters.
Addressing a packed auditorium, Justice Byabakama emphasized the vital role that universities play in nurturing responsible citizens who will shape Uganda's future. He highlighted that young people, particularly those between the ages of 18 and 35, constitute nearly 70% of the population. However, despite their numbers, youth participation in elections remains disappointingly low. The Chairperson stressed the need for students to not only register as voters but to actively engage in the electoral process by voting and even running for office.
Justice Byabakama underscored several key points during his speech:
- University's Role: "Universities are key to nurturing responsible citizens who will shape the future of our nation."
- Youth Demographics: "70% of Uganda's population is young people. Their participation in elections is crucial for democracy."
- Leadership Integrity: "Leadership isn't just about leading, it's about serving with integrity. Accountability in public service is essential."
The event featured an interactive session where students posed questions to the Chairperson about various aspects of the electoral process. Topics ranged from the importance of voter registration to the impact of youth engagement on democracy. Justice Byabakama’s responses highlighted the Electoral Commission’s commitment to ensuring free, fair, and transparent elections.
This visit to Kabale University is the first of many planned across the country. The Electoral Commission aims to visit various universities to continue these essential conversations about the electoral process. Justice Byabakama encouraged university students and staff to undertake scholarship and research on different elements of the electoral process to develop an indigenous body of knowledge relevant to Uganda.
The Chairperson concluded by thanking the Vice Chancellor, Professor Joy Kwesiga, and the entire university management team for their hospitality and support. He reiterated the importance of youth engagement in elections, calling on students to become active participants in shaping the future of Uganda.
Earlier in the day, Justice Byabakama attended another event in the same region as a guest speaker. This regional dialogue, organized by Kick Corruption out of Uganda in Partnership with Uganda National NGO forum, focused on the 2026 General Elections in the Kigezi region. The Chairperson's participation in these back-to-back events underscores the Electoral Commission's dedication to promoting electoral awareness and participation at all levels of society.
The Electoral Commission looks forward to continued engagement with Kabale University and other institutions as part of its mission to enhance democracy and good governance in Uganda.