Alebtong, Uganda – In a significant step toward enhancing democratic governance and universal suffrage, Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Alebtong, Mathias Lutwama, has today Thursday 16 January 2025, officially flagged off 111 Subcounty and Parish Electoral Supervisors.
This marks the start of a critical exercise in updating and displaying voter registers in newly demarcated electoral areas across the district.
During the event, Lutwama emphasized the importance of integrity, professionalism, and adherence to constitutional principles in the performance of their duties.
Addressing the supervisors, he stated: “The summation of your role lies in serving all citizens selflessly. Do not abscond from duty at your places of deployment. This assignment, if well carried out as inspired by Uganda’s Constitution, will open many golden doors for you, especially those new to public service.”
He also urged the supervisors to embrace technical innovation, ensuring that voter registers are accessible in densely populated areas to facilitate changes in voting locations where necessary.
Accompanied by Assistant RDC Okello Jimmy, Lutwama conducted a sensitization session for the supervisors, focusing on the following thematic areas:
1. Understanding Article 59(1) of Uganda’s Constitution
Lutwama explained the constitutional obligation to ensure every eligible Ugandan participates in free and fair elections. He emphasized the importance of the supervisors’ role in maintaining the integrity of the ongoing register display and update exercise.
2. Compliance with Cap 140 of the Electoral Commission Act
The supervisors were guided on their responsibilities as outlined in the Electoral Commission Act. Lutwama highlighted the importance of adhering to the legal framework to advance popular suffrage and ensure credible electoral processes.
3. Upholding National Sovereignty
Lutwama stressed the supervisors’ role in guarding national sovereignty by ensuring transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
The training also covered logistical and operational aspects, including effective deployment and interaction with citizens during the voter register display exercise, scheduled to run from 20th January to 10th February 2025.
At the end of the sensitization, all 111 supervisors pledged to exercise public integrity in line with Article 1(4) of Uganda’s Constitution, which underscores the people’s sovereignty and their right to choose their leaders.
“This exercise is an essential pillar in our democratic processes,” Lutwama remarked. “By maintaining integrity, you will not only fulfill your constitutional mandate but also set a precedent for others in public service.”
Lutwama called on supervisors to work closely with their superiors and community leaders to address any challenges that may arise during the exercise.
He urged them to ensure that all eligible voters have access to the updated registers and that any issues are promptly resolved.
“Your work impacts the foundation of democracy in Alebtong District,” he added. “Exercise diligence, respect, and impartiality in all your engagements.”
This initiative forms part of a broader strategy to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in Alebtong District.
By equipping supervisors with the necessary knowledge and tools, the district leadership aims to enhance trust in the electoral process and uphold the principles of democracy enshrined in Uganda’s Constitution.
Alebtong residents are encouraged to participate actively in reviewing and updating the voter registers to ensure inclusivity and accuracy in preparation for upcoming elections as the exercise commences.
