The Kiira Region Electoral Commission registered 70,906 new voters across the 12 districts of the region during the national voter registration exercise. The exercise, which ran from January 20 to February 10, 2025, was later extended by an additional week until February 17, 2025.
Despite facing technical challenges with older equipment, the regional office in Jinja, led by Deo Natukuda, highlighted that the turnout for new registrations exceeded the number of transfers, with 49,240 transfers recorded. Districts like Busoga, Buyende, Kamuli, Jinja, Luuka, and Namutumba saw some of the highest figures for new registrants.
In Bugiri, 9,788 new voters were registered, alongside 5,444 transfers. Iganga saw 2,413 new voters and 4,099 transfers, while Jinja City recorded 4,635 new voters and 5,946 transfers. Luuka followed closely with 8,076 new voters and 4,366 transfers. In Mayuge, 5,995 new voters were registered, alongside 5,841 transfers, and Buyende recorded 10,048 new voters and 4,589 transfers.
Kamuli reported 10,593 new voters and 3,981 transfers, while Namayingo had 2,301 new voters and 2,575 transfers. Bugweri saw 2,667 new voters and 2,360 transfers, and Jinja had 4,483 new voters and 2,358 transfers. Kaliro recorded 4,015 new voters and 3,265 transfers, while Namutumba registered 5,892 new voters and 4,416 transfers.
Despite the high number of new voters, Natukuda acknowledged that the overall turnout was lower than expected. “The people did not take the exercise seriously, which resulted in additional costs,” he explained, noting delays caused by slow machines and outdated equipment.
However, Natukuda clarified that there was no intimidation during the process, and the registration was open to all eligible citizens aged 18 and above. Looking ahead, Natukuda confirmed that the gathered data would be printed and updated for the final voter register, which will be displayed in the next phase of the exercise.