“A New Era in Electoral Processes: West Nile EC Office Opens”

“A New Era in Electoral Processes: West Nile EC Office Opens”

Yesterday, 28th April 2025, marked a significant milestone in Uganda’s electoral history with the official opening of the West Nile Electoral Commission Regional Office Block and Storage Facilities in Arua City. The ceremony was graced by Mr. Komakech Salim, Resident City Commissioner for Arua City, as the Chief Guest.

In his remarks, Mr. Komakech expressed his delight in associating himself with this historic occasion, noting that it was fitting that the Electoral Commission began with the furthest end of the country, West Nile. He pledged the government’s total support to the Electoral Commission to ensure stability in the exercise of its mandate.

Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairman of the Electoral Commission, welcomed all guests and expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for funding the construction of the office block. He also thanked the leadership of Arua Municipality for their support in identifying and granting the EC the space. The Chairman commended NEC Construction Works and Engineering Ltd, a subsidiary of National Enterprise Corporation, for the expeditious execution of the project, noting that it was completed in less than a year and a half.

The Chairman highlighted the importance of the Electoral Commission’s role in ensuring regular, fair, and free elections, as mandated by the Constitution. He emphasized that the Commission’s permanency would ensure the continuation of democratic processes in Uganda. The new office block is the first of its kind in the country and a symbol of the Commission’s commitment to acquiring its own premises across the country.

Mr. Kamugisha Baabo, Ag Secretary for Electoral Commission, thanked the government for increasing the capital development budget, which enabled the Commission to embark on constructing field offices. He appreciated the work done by the steering committee and commended NEC Construction Works and Engineering Ltd for their excellent work.

Eng. Brian Buhanda, General Manager NEC Construction Works and Engineering Ltd, represented Gen. James Mugira, the Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation. He thanked the EC for giving NEC Construction Works and Engineering Ltd an opportunity to showcase their potential in the construction industry. He highlighted NEC’s capabilities and expressed hope that the EC would consider them for future projects.

The new office block is a significant step towards enhancing the Electoral Commission’s presence in every district and ensuring that every voter is reached. As Uganda heads to the 2026 general elections, the Commission’s efforts to maintain peace and stability in the electoral process are crucial. The ceremony marked a new era in Uganda’s electoral processes, and it is expected that the West Nile office will serve as a model for other regions.