Today, Monday, youth across Uganda are casting their votes to elect parish-level committees, an important step in deepening their role in the country’s democratic process.
In over 10,595 parishes, the second tier of youth leadership is being formed through structured, grassroots democracy.
The Electoral Commission has confirmed that only those who were successfully elected to village-level youth committees are eligible to participate in today’s elections. These young leaders will form the Electoral College for the parish-level polls.
“This is not an open election for all youth,” emphasized Julius Mucunguzi, spokesperson for the Electoral Commission.
“Only those who were elected to the village youth committees are expected to show up. They will meet within their respective parishes and elect amongst themselves the nine committee members who will represent them at the parish level,” he added.
The candidates for today’s election are already known, following a successful nomination process.
Voting will be conducted using the lining-up method, where electors stand behind their preferred candidate, a poster, a symbol, or even an agent representing the candidate.
The Electoral Commission has issued a strong appeal to all participants to maintain peace and dignity throughout the electoral process.
“This election must be peaceful,” Mucunguzi said firmly. “Elections are not a war. They are not a do-or-die affair. They are an opportunity to express choice and build leadership.”
He also urged young people to desist from any acts of violence or confrontation.
“Supporting different candidates or political parties should never turn us into enemies,” he said. “It simply means you have different choices. But we expect you to remain civil, respectful, and united in purpose even in your diversity.”
From 9 AM to 4 PM, youth village committee members will assemble, and before voting begins, voter education and sensitization sessions will be conducted by Electoral Commission officials.
These sessions are designed to walk voters through the process, outline the rules, and ensure clarity and transparency.
The Electoral Commission sees this as more than just an election it is a moment of pride and maturity for Uganda’s youth.
“We want the youth of Uganda to elect their committees in a peaceful atmosphere and give pride to themselves and to their country,” said Mucunguzi.
