Mukono RDC: Time to Rethink Uganda’s Village-Level Voting System

Uganda’s village-level electoral system is once again coming under scrutiny, with Mukono District Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Hajjat Fatuma Ndisaba Nabittaka calling for reforms in the way grassroots leaders are elected. Ndisaba argues that the time has come to reconsider the traditional system of lining up behind candidates and embrace a secret ballot that would give voters greater freedom, privacy and confidence when choosing their leaders.

Ndisaba questioned whether Ugandans still need to vote by lining up behind candidates, given the country’s investment in education through the Universal Primary Education (UPE) programme since 1997.

“After spending a lot of money on UPE schools since 1997 to date, do we still have illiterate voters who cannot read and write?” she questioned, calling for consideration of the use of secret ballots at village level.

The RDC said the current system of lining up behind candidates can expose voters to pressure and tension within their communities. She argued that some voters may avoid participating because of fear of being identified with particular candidates.

According to Ndisaba, the younger generation, particularly those born around the 1990s, has grown up with greater access to education and should be trusted to make independent choices through a secret ballot.

She made the remarks during a special council sitting at Mukono Municipal Council Hall, held to honour and bid farewell to the late Hon. Charles Ssemanda, a former Mayor and chairperson of Mukono Town Council.

Ndisaba urged those responsible for policymaking to consider reviewing Uganda’s laws governing local government elections.

She said the voting process should protect the freedom of voters to choose leaders without fear of social pressure, intimidation or strained relationships with neighbours and community members.

Her comments generated wider reflection on the relationship between education, democratic participation and the electoral systems used at grassroots level.

The RDC also used the occasion to encourage current leaders to emulate the late Ssemanda’s commitment to public service and community development.

The special council sitting brought together Mukono Municipal technical staff, led by Deputy Town Clerk Mr. Moses Magemeso, political leaders and other invited guests.

Among those in attendance were Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP), Mukono Municipality Mayor His Worship Robert Kabanda, Mukono District LCV Chairperson Hon. Francis Lukooya Mukoome, councillors and other political and technical leaders.

The gathering was organised to recognise the contribution of the late Ssemanda to the development of Mukono and to honour his legacy as one of the leaders who played a role in shaping the municipality.

Ndisaba said the life and service of leaders such as Ssemanda should inspire those currently holding public offices to put the interests of their communities above personal ambitions.

The late Charles Ssemanda is expected to be laid to rest tomorrow in Katuba, Namayuba, Nakisunga Sub-county, Mukono District.