Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi has criticized Electoral Commission (EC) chairperson Simon Byabakama for directing voters to leave polling stations immediately after casting their ballots, saying the directive contradicts the law.
Appearing on a presidential debate hosted by the Nation Media Group on Sunday, Nandala expressed shock that Byabakama who previously served as a judge would issue what he believes is a legally flawed instruction.
“I had the Electoral Commission chairman saying after voting, everybody should leave the polling station. I thought this gentleman was a judge, when I look at the Presidential and Parliamentary Act, it clearly says that after voting, a person should stay 20 meters from the polling station. Is that the same as saying people should go home? That shows there is lack of understanding in this country and these are people who are going to be the referees. We only pray to God that they learn the law and understand it,” Nandala said.
His remarks follow Byabakama’s recent warning to voters against lingering near polling stations after voting.
The EC chair argued that the common practice of remaining around polling stations in the name of “voter protection” is inappropriate and could fuel disorder.
“Voter protection is alien,” Byabakama said. “A polling station is filled by the voters and agents. Then what will happen? That protection will bring about chaos. At the time of counting, you can be present. Don’t surround polling officials.”
