The Electoral Commission (EC) has outlined detailed procedures for the announcement and transmission of election results, aiming to calm fears among candidates and voters ahead of polling day.
The move comes amid concerns about transparency, the handling of withdrawn candidates, and the integrity of the tallying process.
During the ongoing dispatch of voting materials, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama emphasized that results from every polling station will be announced on-site immediately after counting, in accordance with the law.
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He explained that these results will then be transmitted to district tally centers, where they will be announced again before being forwarded to the national tally center.
"The results of any polling station shall be announced at that very center before sending them to districts, where they will announce them before sending them to the national tally center, as per the law," Justice Byabakama said.
He added that presiding officers must strictly adhere to the legal procedures, especially in transmitting Declaration of Results (DR) forms. While acknowledging fears expressed by some candidates, he stressed that the Commission will not deviate from the law under any circumstances.
"We are aware of the fear among candidates, but the law is clear and we shall follow it," Byabakama said.
In a bid to enhance transparency, Justice Byabakama revealed that a large screen will be installed at the national tally center, where all tallied results will be publicly displayed as they are received.
This measure, he noted, is intended to provide real-time visibility of the counting process and reinforce public confidence in the electoral process.
The EC Chairperson also addressed concerns surrounding candidates who may still appear on ballot papers despite being withdrawn or disqualified after nomination.
Since many ballot papers have already been printed, Justice Byabakama said the Commission would ensure that voters in affected polling areas are clearly informed to avoid confusion on polling day.
"In case any candidate is on the ballot and he or she was nominated but later withdrawn, we shall make sure voters in that voting area are informed," he said.
Justice Byabakama further clarified the Commission's position regarding pending election-related petitions.
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While acknowledging that these legal matters are still under consideration, he expressed confidence that their outcomes would not compromise or delay the voting process.
"The petitions are under consideration, but whatever the outcomes, they will not sabotage the voting process," he said, reinforcing the EC's commitment to a smooth and credible election.
The Electoral Commission says these measures are part of broader efforts to strengthen transparency, build public trust, and ensure a lawful and efficient election.
They come as the country prepares for what is expected to be a highly competitive polling exercise, with multiple parties and independent candidates vying for seats across various levels of government.
Byabakama's statements follow a series of public engagements aimed at reassuring political stakeholders about the integrity of the electoral process.
Analysts say that clear communication on result transmission and the handling of exceptional cases, such as withdrawn candidates, is critical to preventing disputes and maintaining voter confidence.
The installation of a public screen at the national tally center is being viewed as a major step toward openness, enabling citizens, media, and party representatives to follow the results as they are collated.
Observers note that such measures can help reduce skepticism about the final outcome and minimize accusations of result manipulation.
As polling day approaches, the EC continues to focus on operational readiness, including the distribution of voting materials, training of presiding officers, and adherence to strict legal procedures.
The Commission has reiterated that every aspect of the election will be conducted in accordance with the law, aiming to deliver a process that is credible, transparent, and inclusive.
