Government Not Ready With Electoral Reforms-AG Kiwanuka

The Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka has revealed that the government is not yet ready to move a compendium of electoral reforms, despite growing calls for amendments into the Constitution, and electoral laws ahead of 2026 general elections.

In response to a query by Nyendo-Mukungwe MP and Parliamentary Commissioner Mathias Mpuuga who has devoted time since 2022 to advocating for significant reforms to avoid a repeat of the messy electoral cycle, Kiwanuka said that he has not received instructions from the line Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to draft reforms.

“I have not received any instructions from the Minister of Justice to draft any reforms, but I will check.” This response has raised eyebrows, especially given the urgency of the matter.

It is on record that Minister Nobert Mao has been telling the nation that the Government is in the advanced stages of introducing the desired constitutional and electoral reforms, accusing the Democratic Alliance (DA) leaders of copying their ideas.

Mpuuga, who has been pushing for electoral reforms, expressed frustration over the delay in addressing his proposals, given that he tabled eight (8) bills for amendment in line with the Constitutional, electoral, parliamentary, and local government close to four months ago.

Mpuuga questioned, “You [the deputy speaker of parliament] have been consistent in ensuring that Parliament sticks to its role. Now that we have taken that route, three months ago, I tabled before your office a peripheral of amendments to cause reforms of electoral matters, and we have not played our role as a House. May we be guided by the Attorney General on whether he has any reforms of a legislative nature leading to elections? When will mine see the order of the day?”

The delay in addressing electoral reforms has also sparked concerns among legislators and stakeholders, who are calling for the government to expedite necessary amendments. This is crucial to ensure a smooth and credible electoral process in 2026.

Mpuuga has been at the forefront of pushing for electoral reforms, which include several key proposals. These reforms aim to transform Uganda’s electoral landscape and foster a more democratic political environment.

Some of the proposed electoral reforms include:

1. Restore and entrench presidential term limits: This reform seeks to prevent presidents from serving indefinitely.
2. Presidential candidates to have a run mate who shall be the Deputy president: This proposal aims to promote accountability and transparency in the presidency.
3. Introduce a second tier of parliament with 39 MPs from the original 39 districts of Uganda: This reform seeks to promote regional representation and reduce the size of Parliament.
4. Reduce the size of Parliament to 292 MPs: This proposal aims to streamline governance and enhance legislative efficiency.
5. Allow ordinary voters to challenge in court the presidential results: This reform seeks to promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
6. Presidential election results for each district be declared at the district before their transmission to the national tally centre: This proposal aims to reduce the risk of electoral manipulation.
7. Allow prisoners and Ugandans in the diaspora to vote: This reform seeks to promote inclusivity and expand voting rights.

These proposals have been met with interest and scrutiny, with some stakeholders expressing concerns about their potential impact. However, Mpuuga remains committed to pushing for these reforms, which he believes are essential for Uganda’s democratic development.