UHRC Issues Nationwide Plea for High Voter Turnout in LC1 Elections

LCC TV NEWS

KAMPALA, Uganda – The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has issued a clarion call to all registered Ugandans, urging them to participate en masse in the upcoming Local Council 1 (LC1) elections, framing the village-level vote as a cornerstone of grassroots democracy and national stability.

Speaking ahead of the polls, UHRC Commissioner Crispin Kaheru emphasized the critical role of the LC1 structure as the primary interface between the government and citizens. He noted that the village council functions as the "first responder" to community challenges, serving as the initial point of resolution for land disputes, domestic violence, theft, and neighborhood conflicts.

“The quality of life in every village depends, in part, on the quality of leadership its people choose,” Commissioner Kaheru stated. “Strong villages build a stronger Uganda.”

Beyond the act of voting, the Commission urged citizens to remain engaged with local governance structures post-election. To foster sustainable community development, the UHRC advised residents to save their LC1 Chairperson’s contact details, familiarize themselves with their village leadership, and actively join or establish village-based communication platforms.

“These tools, particularly WhatsApp groups, strengthen communication, improve emergency response, enhance neighborhood security, and support community mobilization,” the Commission noted.

The UHRC further appealed to the electorate to exercise their democratic rights peacefully. The Commission stressed the importance of adhering to the rule of law, rejecting violence, intimidation, and hate speech, while respecting the diverse political choices of fellow citizens.

In a poignant reminder about the enduring nature of community life, the Commission cautioned voters against allowing temporary political divisions to fracture long-term social cohesion.

“While elections are temporary, communities are permanent,” the statement read. “Vote with your conscience. Tomorrow’s opponent will still be your neighbour. Let us protect our peace, strengthen our villages and continue building a safer, stronger Uganda together.”