A multi-billion regional election management and storage center for West Nile has been commissioned in Arua City ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The two-level facility was constructed by the National Enterprise Corporation at a cost of UGX 4.698 billion, funded by the Government of Uganda.
While commissioning the facility on Monday, the Chairman of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Byabakama, urged the people of West Nile and political players to ensure a peaceful electoral process next year, warning that any disruption could have negative consequences.
Byabakama described the completion of the facility as a vital milestone in Uganda’s democratic journey, further promising transparency in the upcoming electoral processes.
Salim Komakech, the Resident City Commissioner of Arua, commended the government and the Electoral Commission for establishing what he described as a historic, first-of-its-kind structure in Uganda.
He called for a spirit of unity in politics during the coming elections.
Meanwhile, Sam Wadri Nyakua, the Mayor of Arua City, applauded the Electoral Commission for prioritizing Arua and West Nile and urged for free, fair, and peaceful elections.
However, members of various political parties, including FDC, NUP, DP, and ANT, who attended the commissioning ceremony, urged the Electoral Commission to ensure that a free, fair, and level political space is accorded to all players in the 2026 general elections.
Construction of the facility began on December 15, 2023, and was completed in March 2024.