Uganda electoral commission insists they will be impartial

The Uganda Electoral Commission has dismissed claims that they are under pressure to announce a certain candidate as winner in the election.

Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Mugenyi said they will announce the results as per the decision of the voters.

“Do we look like we are under pressure? What kind of pressure and from who? We have planned since 2018 and we are only going to execute our plan,” he said.

He was speaking while fielding questions from journalists on Wednesday.

“We are not 18million Ugandans. We will not be in every polling station as commissioners, so how can we influence the elections? We will report what will be relayed,” the chairperson added.

On some observers pulling out of the electoral process, the commission said they have accredited over 800 observers.

“It is not mandatory that when you apply to observe, we must allow you, no! You are only requesting, so if you come, well and good, if you don’t, we say goodbye, the elections must continue,” said Justice Mugenyi.

The commission Vice Chairperson Aisha Lubega however insisted that they are not aware of reasons behind the European Union and United States withdrawal from the process.

The commission has stated that voters will be expected to leave the polling stations immediately after casting their ballot.

“Why do you want your supporters to stay at the polling station? Your agents are there. Are you saying your agents are morons?” Mugenyi posed.

He further appealed to political players to cooperate with the commission to ensure a credible and fraud-less election.

The Commission Chairperson said the results of the presidential results will be announced within 48 hours after voting closes.