Kitgum | The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has launched a regional dialogue aimed at promoting peaceful, inclusive, and rights-based elections ahead of the 2026 general polls.
Opening the engagement at Acaki Lodge in Kitgum Municipality, Fionah Opoka, the Regional Human Rights Officer at the UHRC Gulu Office, said the forum brings together key stakeholders to address election-related human rights concerns and develop strategies to prevent violence before, during, and after the elections.
Opoka noted that elections are a cornerstone of democratic governance, giving citizens the power under Article 1 of the Constitution to choose their leaders every five years.
With the 2026 election cycle already underway, activities such as campaigns, civic and voter education, observer accreditation, and preparation of election materials have already begun.
She, however, highlighted persistent challenges that continue to undermine electoral credibility—political violence, abuse of electoral processes, internal party conflicts, youth gang formation, voter apathy, and widespread human rights violations.
To confront these concerns, UHRC is convening regional dialogues in electoral hot spots under its jurisdiction.
Atim Betty Owot, the District Elections Administrator for Kitgum District, welcomed the initiative, calling it timely and essential for raising awareness of human rights standards, strengthening cooperation among election actors, and developing practical recommendations for peaceful polls.
She said the engagements are expected to deepen understanding of stakeholders’ roles, enhance appreciation of human rights challenges, and strengthen partnerships that complement the work of the Electoral Commission.
Aswa East Regional Police Commander, SSP Okae Ben, also applauded the initiative, saying it offers a vital platform for stakeholders to fully understand their responsibilities during the election period.
Community members equally expressed optimism.
Margaret Akot, a resident of Kitgum Municipality, said the public often hears about clashes between youth groups during elections.
“This dialogue gives us hope that this time leaders and security will act early before things get out of hand,” she said.
Oryem Denis, a youth leader in Pager Division, said many election-related problems stem from limited civic education.
“Young people do not understand their rights or the dangers of being used for violence. UHRC coming here shows our concerns are being taken seriously,” he said.
Brian Kaka, a human rights activist in Kitgum, said youth and women often face intimidation during elections, making them fear participating in campaigns or even voting.
“I am happy that the Commission is addressing these human rights concerns so young women can freely take part,” he said.
For Bosco Okello, a boda boda rider in Kitgum Central Division, past elections have been marred by clashes at rallies and during late-night campaigns.
“If all stakeholders know their roles, maybe we shall not see the chaos we saw before,” he said.
Kitgum District Chairperson (LC5), Arwai Christopher Obol, said the dialogue will strengthen the district’s efforts toward peaceful elections and improve coordination among political actors, security agencies, and the community.
Lawrence Nyekorach, Vicar of St. Janani Luwum Church of Uganda in Kitgum town parish, emphasized the moral responsibility of ensuring peaceful elections.
“When institutions like UHRC involve the community, it reduces mistrust and promotes peaceful coexistence regardless of political party,” he said.
UHRC plans to roll out similar engagements in other regions as part of a coordinated national effort to promote peaceful and rights-based electoral processes.
The regional dialogues are expected to improve understanding of election actors’ roles, raise awareness of human rights concerns, foster collaboration, generate practical recommendations, and strengthen partnerships to prevent and respond to electoral.
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