WAKISO: Uganda’s Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja on Wednesday, 30th July, officiated at the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the Electoral Commission’s permanent headquarters in Lubowa-Lweza, Makindye Ssabagabo Municipality.
Nabbanja stated that providing the Commission with a permanent home underscores Uganda’s democratic credentials and coincides with the 30th anniversary of the 1995 Constitution, which under Article 60 mandates the establishment of a permanent electoral body to organize and supervise elections and referenda.
“The acquisition of land and commencement of construction demonstrates the NRM government’s recognition of the Commission’s critical role in democratic governance,” she said.
She added that the project, once complete, will cut government rental costs by consolidating ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) into a centralized campus.
The National Housing Construction Company Limited (NHCC), in partnership with China Communications Construction Company, is leading the construction on a 10-acre prime land plot.
Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao hailed the move as a step in Uganda’s democratic journey. He commended NHCC CEO Eng. Kenneth Kaijuka for allocating the land before government payment and urged Makindye Ssabagabo residents to seize employment opportunities from the project.
On the 2026 elections, Mao acknowledged the challenge of organizing free and fair polls but urged Ugandans to trust the Commission. However, he doubted the 24-month timeline would be met unless full funding is secured from the Finance Ministry.
Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Mugyenyi Byabakama praised the government’s commitment, thanking Nabbanja and Mao for their support. He recalled the Commission’s past struggles with flooding and makeshift offices on Jinja Road, stating the new facility would resolve these issues.
The headquarters, once completed, will provide office and storage space, a conducive work environment, enhanced ICT infrastructure, and a professional image. Temporary structures at the site will host the September 23–24 presidential nominations.
The Finance Ministry has so far released Shs26b of the Shs150b budget. If deadlines are met, the Lubowa-Lweza campus will also serve as the national tally center for the 2026 presidential elections.
Currently, the Commission rents NHCC-owned premises in Industrial Area, Kampala a situation set to end once the new headquarters is operational.
Related Posts:
Recommended for you
Leave a Reply
Leave a Reply