Masaka District Woman Member of Parliament, Joan Namutaawe, has asked the government to clarify the legal framework guiding the compulsory use of biometric machines during elections.

Raising a matter of national importance during Thursday’s plenary sitting, Namutaawe noted that earlier this week, the Electoral Commission received approximately 6,000 voter verification kits intended for use in the forthcoming general elections.

She expressed concern that the government has declared the use of these biometric devices mandatory, yet has not specified the law under which such enforcement is grounded. Namutaawe emphasized that clarity is essential to ensure transparency and public trust in the electoral process.

In response, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa informed the House that the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Norbert Mao, had committed to presenting a comprehensive statement to Parliament on the issue within two weeks.

By Francis Lubega

30th Oct 2025

End