The Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Mariam Wangadya, has called on leaders from across the political and social spectrum to recommit themselves to peace, fairness and freedom as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.

Speaking at the National Dialogue on Elections held on Monday, 29th September 2026, Wangadya urged political leaders to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and appealed to security agencies to act with professionalism.

“Free elections require that every Ugandan regardless of gender, political affiliation, age or background can participate without fear,” Wangadya said.

“Fair elections demand equal rules for all, impartial institutions and respect for the wheel of the people,” she added.

Wangadya described voting as a profound civic duty and cornerstone of democracy, further reminding citizens to exercise their rights with respect and tolerance.

“The right to vote is not just a legal entitlement, it is a life plan of democracy. Voting is not just a mere procedure. It is a profound expression of sovereignty and collective will,” she said.

She emphasized that elections provide an avenue for citizens to shape the direction of the nation, give legitimacy to leadership, hold duty bearers accountable and influence decisions that affect their daily lives.

“Elections allow people to express both their aspirations and their dissatisfaction and to decide who will lead them,” she added.

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According to Wangadya, national dialogues are vital in fostering trust, promoting transparency and addressing grievances before they escalate. She warned, however, that challenges persist, including voter apathy, intolerance, electoral violence, misinformation and distrust in the process.

The UHRC Chairperson reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding rights during the election period.

“We will provide independent recommendations to enhance credibility, inclusivity and public trust in the process. Let us remember elections are not an end in themselves, they are means to achieve good governance, social justice and sustainable development,” Wangadya noted.

Wangadya called on Ugandans to use the ballot to unite rather than divide the country.

“Elections should not divide Ugandans but rather unite them in choosing leaders who serve the people faithfully,” she said.

Representing the Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, Dr. Silver Sallie Kayunga said the Commission is committed to transparency in the entire electoral process.

He also urged presidential candidates to adhere to the guidelines provided to them for peaceful campaigns and elections. He re-echoed Wangadya’s call for candidates to respect one another and avoid abusive language.

“The candidate’s campaign should not be conducted in a way that undermines the peace of this country. We are all Ugandans and we should act that way to ensure we are a secure and united country,” he emphasised.

He advised candidates to use social media responsibly and avoid over-monetisation of the elections.

Dr Silver assured the public that with the new technology being deployed, transparency would be guaranteed. He emphasized that it will be difficult for a person to vote twice and for any person to stuff the ballot box.

The National Dialogue on Elections closed with a collective call for tolerance, transparency and respect for democratic principles as Uganda heads toward the 2026 general elections. Both the Uganda Human Rights Commission and the Electoral Commission pledged to play their part in ensuring credibility, inclusivity and peace, while urging political actors and citizens alike to put the country’s unity and democratic progress above partisan interests.