Gulu set for polls as EC conducts final biometric kit operation trainings
The biomtric machines were double-checked for efficiency before they were dispatched to sub-county headquarters.
Justice minister Norbert Mao (2nd-R) urged voters to turn up in large numbers and cast their ballots without fear of vote rigging. (Credit: Jacob Ismael)
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UGANDA ELECTIONS 2026
Hundreds of polling officials in Gulu district on Wednesday (January 14) underwent refresher training on operating Biometric Voter Verification Kits (BVVK) ahead of Election Day.
The machines were double-checked for efficiency before they were dispatched to sub-county headquarters, where they would spend the night under tight security.
Electoral Commission (EC) returning officer for Gulu district Erasmus Kimbowa told New Vision that none of the kits was faulty.
“All the kits have been charged and equipped with standby power sources. So, we are set for tomorrow [Thursday].” Kimbowa said by phone from Gulu district headquarters in Awach town council.
Gulu district has 145 polling stations with over 56,000 voters spread across 11 sub-counties.
Kimbowa said voting materials including ballot boxes, ballot papers, and basins safely arrived in the 11 sub-county headquarters for ease and timely distribution to the respective polling stations.
Polls are expected to open at 8:00am, with five eligible voters available to witness the opening of the materials and close by 5:00pm.
Meanwhile, New Vision's David Lukiiza captured the security readiness ahead of the elections in parts of Kampala below:
'Foolproof'
On Tuesday, justice minister Norbert Mao urged voters to turn up in large numbers and cast their ballots without fear of vote rigging.
“The Biometric Voter Verification Kits make rigging impossible. It is foolproof. Therefore, I urge all Ugandans to cast their ballots without fear,” he said.
Throughout the Northern Uganda region, an atmosphere of calm and quiet prevailed as security patrolled major towns across the region.
Voters ready
With all set for the 2026 presidential and parliamentary elections, a section of voters in Gulu district have expressed readiness to cast their ballots.
Christine Aber, a resident of Patiko sub-county, revealed that she will leave her house very early in the morning and cast her ballot.
“We have heard their manifestos, and we are ready to pass the verdict come Thursday. I am voting for the future of this country," she said.
Gloria Lamunu, another resident, said: "I will vote for peace and national security of the nation.”
Dickens Otim, a human rights activist based in Gulu city, encouraged Ugandans to exercise their constitutional rights to elect their leaders without fear.