Kampala — THE Secretary General of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Amama Mbabazi and the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Prof. Ogenga Latigo, as well as a cross-section of people who included legislators, opinion leaders, academics and members of the diplomatic corps convened on October 30, 2008 to discuss challenges to electoral systems in Africa and particularly in Uganda.

There was clear consensus between the ruling NRM and the opposition, during the dialogue organised by a local think-tank, Fanaka Kwa Wote, on the need for electoral reforms. But consensus was lacking on the question of the electoral reforms.

For instance, the Leader of the Opposition and senior Forum for Democratic Change leader, Latigo argued that the Electoral Commission needs overhaul to give opposition representation. On his part, Mbabazi, while recognising need for an independent commission argued that representation of the political parties was not necessary to guarantee its independence.

No doubt Uganda faces many electoral challenges, like many other countries. During the previous elections, a lot of shortcomings were experienced, undermining the free and fairness of the elections. But for most of the shortcomings, the Commission argued that it wasn't given adequate time to organise the elections. Either Parliament passed the relevant electoral laws belatedly or the Ministry of Finance provided the money very late.

It is high time, therefore, that the Government and opposition embark on serious discussions about the necessary electoral reforms. For instance, there have been calls to put in place laws against the increasing commercialisation of the elections. The composition of the Electoral Commission remains an issue of contention. The Voters' Roll remains a big problem, et cetera.

These issues should be tackled and resolved early to ensure a transparent and fair electoral process in 2011. The Electoral Commission should also be provided with money to streamline the Voters' Roll and issuance of photographic voters' cards that in the past was messy.