Local government elections for City Mayors, Lord Mayor, District Chairpersons, and Councillors have kicked off across several areas amid low voter turnout, resulting in delayed starts at many polling stations.
In many locations, voting began late due to the absence of the minimum required 10 voters needed to witness and confirms the opening of polling stations, as stipulated by electoral procedures.
At several polling stations in Kampala visited by our reporters, polling officials were seen waiting idly, with few or no voters arriving hours after the scheduled start time.
Despite Electoral Commission materials arriving early at polling centres in Masajja Division, Makindye Ssabagabo Municipality, Wakiso District, voter turnout remained low, preventing timely commencement of voting.
At Kibiri Polling Centre B, which has three polling stations, election kits arrived early, but neither the required 10 witnesses nor polling agents were present in time to allow voting to begin.
Similarly, at Gangu C Polling Station, election materials arrived at 8:10 a.m., but voting only commenced at 10:05 a.m. after just five of the required witnesses became available.
Some residents at Gangu C, who preferred anonymity, expressed frustration and said they were reluctant to participate in elections where they believe their votes do not determine the final outcome, alleging that winners are instead imposed.
In Wakiso District, voters are electing their LCV Chairperson, with three candidates in the race: Ian Kyeyune (NRM), Nasif Najja (NUP and current district speaker), and Flavia Nakafeero (Democratic Front).
Also being elected are directly elected councillors and female councillors at the district level.
Contesting for Wakiso District directly elected councillor positions are Charles Kyalo (NUP), Mubiru Muzamiru (PFF), Wilfred Nabulime (NRM), and Monday Patrick Sseruwagi (Independent).
For the Wakiso District female councillor seat, the contenders are Ritah Kulabako (Independent), Dorcus Mazirwe (NRM), and Zaitun Nalunkuma.
As of the latest update, voting is ongoing, although turnout remains minimal.
In many polling stations, presiding officers and agents were seen seated in the sun, with voters arriving as infrequently as one person every 10 to 20 minutes, marking one of the lowest turnouts recorded so far.
More updates will follow in subsequent bulletins.
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