VOCAL Africa Flags Flawed Voter Register Ahead of Uganda Polls

VOCAL Africa has raised serious concerns over Uganda’s voter register ahead of the January 15, 2026 elections.
The group alleges the register contains deceased persons while excluding many legitimate voters.
Consequently, the coalition doubts the credibility of the upcoming polls.

Youth and Opposition Supporters Allegedly Excluded

According to VOCAL Africa, the voter register contains duplicate entries and unexplained omissions.
Notably, many excluded voters are youth and opposition supporters.
Therefore, the group accuses the Electoral Commission of deliberate voter suppression.

Electoral Commission Accused of Undermining the Vote

Furthermore, VOCAL Africa claims the Electoral Commission cannot conduct a credible election.
The group alleges officials issued illegal orders forcing voters to leave polling stations after voting.
However, existing laws allow citizens to remain at polling centres.

Candidates Disqualified and Audits Obstructed

Meanwhile, the coalition reports widespread candidate disqualifications.
Over 20 National Unity Platform candidates were removed months into their campaigns.
At the same time, 20 NRM candidates reportedly won unopposed through fraudulent nominations.
Additionally, the commission released the final voter register too late for meaningful audits.

Military Polling Stations and Internet Shutdown Raise Alarm

VOCAL Africa also condemned polling centres located within military and police barracks.
Moreover, authorities allegedly restricted access for independent observers.
The group further criticised the procurement of biometric voter technology without proper legislation.
Meanwhile, the internet shutdown has blocked social media, emails, and messaging platforms nationwide.
Consequently, the coalition claims the blackout aims to conceal repression ahead of the vote.