EASF Concludes Short-Term Election Observation Mission in Uganda

The Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Short-Term Election Observer Mission (SEOM) has concluded its work in the Republic of Uganda following the General Elections held on 15 January 2026. The Mission presented its Preliminary Statement on Saturday, 17 January 2026, in Kampala, outlining its observations and key findings.

Speaking at the conclusion of the Mission, the Head of Mission, Ambassador Dieudonné Ndabarushimana of the Republic of Burundi, noted that the EASF-SEOM was deployed at the invitation of the Government of Uganda and in line with the EASF Guidelines on Election Observation, as well as relevant African Union and international instruments. He emphasized that the Mission’s mandate was to support democratic processes, enhance public confidence in elections, and contribute to peace and stability in the region.

The Mission was deployed from 10 to 18 January 2026 and comprised 19 short-term observers drawn from EASF Member States, supported by EASF staff. Observers were organized into nine field teams and covered 113 polling stations across several regions, including Kampala and its environs, as well as major cities such as Jinja, Entebbe, Mbale, Gulu, Fort Portal, Mbarara, and Lira.

According to the Preliminary Statement, the electoral process was conducted in a largely peaceful environment, despite sporadic incidents of tension and a visible security presence. The Mission observed delays in the opening of many polling stations, largely attributed to late delivery of materials, technical challenges with biometric voter verification kits, and late arrival of polling officials. These challenges contributed to low voter turnout in several areas.

The Mission also noted limited media presence at polling stations, few domestic observers, and inconsistencies in the application of polling procedures, indicating a need for improved training of polling staff. However, vote counting was generally conducted in an orderly manner and in accordance with the law.

In its conclusion, the EASF-SEOM assessed that the elections took place in an overall calm and orderly atmosphere and urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint, uphold constitutional processes, and continue efforts to strengthen Uganda’s electoral framework. The Final Report is expected to be released within 90 days.