Voters will not be allowed to witness the
counting of votes at polling stations due to COVID-19 standard Operating
Procedures. This is according to the Electoral Commission.
Simon Byabakama, the Electoral Commission Chairperson who was speaking at the
ceremony to dispatch polling materials said that in the wake of COVID-19, they
will allow specific people like agents of candidates, EC officials and security
personnel only at the polling stations.
Byabakama says that although it is a right for people to witness the counting
of votes, the few people that will remain behind will ensure transparency.
He says that it is also dangerous to keep
people of different political party and supporters of rival candidates in the
same area.
He advised voters to go back home after voting and not hang around to wait for
the vote counting. Justice Byabakama on
counting votes;…
According to the Electoral Commission guidelines for the sake of transparency, voters have a right to attend and witness the process of counting of votes.
The Presidential elections act says that voters can stay at least 20 meters from the polling station.
Mr.Rogers Bicwa an agent of Gen.Gregory Mugisha Muntu says people need to protect their votes and ensure transparency during the counting.
Mr. Rogers on votes;……
Paul Bukenya, the Electoral Commission Spokesperson also said voters who come to the polling station without masks will be turned away. END.