Youth leaders from across Eastern Uganda have gathered at the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) Main Campus in Mbale for a crucial regional conference to elect their Youth Member of Parliament to the 12th Parliament.

The election entered its critical voting phase today, January 28, after the Electoral Commission completed the accreditation of delegates the day before.

This election is part of a nationwide process, with youth parliamentary polls being held simultaneously in all four of Uganda’s geographical regions.

The Eastern Region election is being conducted through an Electoral College system, with delegates voting by secret ballot.

Deo Atukunda, the Regional Returning Officer, confirmed that over 2,000 accredited delegates are participating in the vote.

The race has attracted six candidates: Wanyama Judas Thadeo (NRM), Masawi Ivan (FDC), Wanduka Simon Gyabi (NUP), Omaria Emmanuel (Independent), Nambozo Josephine (Independent), and Timothy Kivunike Kadaga (Independent).

Uganda’s youth representation in Parliament is structured around five affirmative action seats, which include one youth MP from each of the four regions and one National Female Youth MP.

Voting for regional youth representatives is happening today across the country, while the National Youth Female Member of Parliament will be elected on February 6.

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