Electoral Commission receives 60,000 Biometric Kits, Voters Must Be Verified to Cast Ballot

#IvanKaahwaReports | kaahwaivan@gmail.com

Developing story………… The Electoral Commission has received a consignment of 60,000 biometric verification kits that will be deployed during the 2026 presidential, parliamentary and local government elections scheduled for January.

The kits, supplied by Simi-Valley Company arrived at Entebbe International Airport on Tuesday, October 28 at midnight. They were officially received by the EC Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama who said an additional 49,142 units are expected to arrive in November.

Justice Byabakama revealed that two kits will be stationed at each polling station nationwide to verify and identify all eligible voters before they are issued ballot papers.

“No voter will be given a ballot paper without being biometrically identified,” Byabakama emphasized.

According to Byabakama, the new devices are an improvement over those used in the 2016 and 2021 elections with enhanced features designed to boost the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.

Each unit will come with a power bank to ensure uninterrupted operation in areas with limited or no electricity. He further explained that the kits have been customized to function efficiently even in areas with weak or no internet connectivity ensuring inclusivity across the country.

Furthermore, the kits will also aid in the identification of forged ballots and ensure that only valid votes are counted.

Justice Byabakama revealed that electoral officers will undergo training on how to use the equipment effectively while public sensitization campaigns will be rolled out to manage expectations and build confidence in the process.

“We are confident that this form of technology will enhance the electoral process. It is best suited to meet Uganda’s needs and will help us deliver a credible, peaceful, free and fair election,” Byabakama said.

Developing story………… #IvanKaahwaReports | kaahwaivan@gmail.com