Remarks by Hon Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairman of the Uganda Electoral Commission, at the inaugural Peace Ambassadors workshop held on 16th September 2025 at the UNAFRI Secretariat.

The Chairperson expressed his pleasure at attending the Peace Ambassadors workshop, held at the United Nations African Institute for the Prevention of Crime and the Treatment of Offenders (UNAFRI) secretariat in Naguru, Kampala.

The idea of 'free and fair elections' is not explicitly defined under Ugandan law, but the Supreme Court of Uganda has offered guidance, especially in the landmark case of Kizza Besigye versus Yoweri Museveni and the Electoral Commission, Presidential Petition No.1 of 2001. It was stated in that case that to ensure elections are free and fair, adequate time should be allocated for all stages, including nominations, campaigns, voting, and vote counting. Candidates must not be deprived of their right to stand, and citizens should not be denied the right to vote for their preferred candidates through unfair manipulation by electoral officers. There must be a level playing field so that incumbents, government ministers, and officials do not have an unfair advantage. The entire election process should be conducted in an environment free from intimidation, bribery, violence, coercion, or any actions intended to undermine the will of the people. Election procedures should guarantee ballot secrecy, accurate counting, and timely announcement of results. Election laws and guidelines for participants should be prepared and published well in advance. Fairness and transparency must be maintained throughout all stages of the electoral process. Those who commit electoral offences or otherwise undermine the process should face strict sanctions. The Electoral Commission must resolve election disputes promptly and fairly.

As Chairman of the Uganda Electoral Commission, he reaffirmed that the foundation of Uganda’s democracy remains the principle that ultimate power belongs to the people. The Constitution, adopted in 1995, upholds this core principle, stipulating that Ugandans exercise their sovereignty through regular, credible, and participatory elections. It is the duty of every citizen not only to value these rights but also to perform the associated responsibilities with care and integrity.

The Constitution also outlines the rights and responsibilities of every Ugandan citizen. Citizens are encouraged not only to partake in choosing their leaders but also to respect the rule of law, uphold peace, and promote national unity. He especially urged young people, who represent both the present and future of our nation, to take pride in the country's progress, remain vigilant against divisive influences, and actively work towards building a peaceful, democratic society.

He reminded the youth about the preamble to the Constitution, which solemnly recognises the painful chapters of political turmoil, conflict, and instability that Uganda has faced in its history. Referencing these experiences as hard-won lessons, he urged young people to acknowledge the fragile nature of peace and the collective responsibility to safeguard it. He stressed that the current constitutional order, which guarantees the rights of all citizens and establishes democratic processes, was created from a resolve never to repeat the mistakes of the past.

In his address, he encouraged the youth to see themselves as custodians of this heritage, responsible for ensuring that Uganda’s future is not harmed by divisions and conflicts that once threatened its unity. By choosing dialogue over confrontation, respecting others' rights and dignity, and actively rejecting violence in all its forms, young Ugandans have the potential to build resilient communities. He urged them to take leadership within their communities, promote civic education, and serve as ambassadors of peace through both words and actions.

Ultimately, he urged the youth to find inspiration in Uganda’s journey, to remain vigilant and proactive, not only in protecting peace but also in fostering the democratic values that support the nation’s progress. Their dedication, he emphasised, would serve as a beacon for future generations, ensuring that the sacrifices of the past lead to a stable, inclusive, and harmonious society for all.

He cautioned the youth that the integrity of elections remains under threat from ongoing challenges, with corruption being particularly harmful. Election corruption, whether through vote-buying or acts such as buying waragi for voters, manipulation of voter registers, or abuse of public resources, erodes public trust and distorts the true will of the people.

Peaceful elections are not solely the result of institutional frameworks; they are a collective achievement, built through the actions of conscientious individuals. He urged the youth to continue educating, engaging, and empowering one another, so that the democratic process is not just an event but a living testament to our shared aspirations.

He expressed his gratitude to the youth for their attention, dedication, and commitment to peace and democracy in Uganda.