Uganda goes to the polls on February 18th. And the East African Community will be closely watching. Seventeen observer teams comprising of representatives from the east African legislative assembly, human rights activists and civil society are in various regions of Uganda to observer the election process. The team is led by former president of Tanzania Ali Hassan Mwinyi.
“The assessment of the electoral process in Uganda will be carried out in an impartial and objective manner informed by the principles and guidelines stipulated and legal standards governing the conduct of elections” Ali Hassan Mwinyi, Head of Mission – EAC Observers
The East African region has already suffered a sting in the elections within its member states. Burundi was plunged into turmoil, with President Pierre Nkurunziza insisting on standing for what his critics say was an illegal third term. But with plenty of election activity within the region over the next three years, observers are more keen on seeing peaceful processes.
“Elections are crucial..are vital..are important and are central to the development of any nation and they are the corner stone of every democracy ” Abdullah Makame, EAC Observer Mission
Political analysts however feel, the regional community is doing so little in guiding its members.
Seven candidates are contesting against the incumbent Yoweri Museveni for the country’s top job. More than 15 million people are expected to take part in next week’s elections.
The East African mission will observe the concluding stages of the campaign process as well as monitor vote counting. While their observations will be made public after the elections, it is expected that a smooth election process in Uganda could provide lessons for other East African countries.
