The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially released the schedule for the by-election of the District Woman Representative to Parliament for Kisoro District, along with vacancies for various Local Government Councillors.
The by-election follows the recent passing of Hon. Nyirabasitsi Sarah Mateke, the former Woman MP for Kisoro District, who died on September 7, 2024.
The EC has announced that the process will kick off with the update of the National Voters’ Register from Friday, September 27, to Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at designated update stations across all 71 parishes and wards in Kisoro District.
This crucial phase will allow new voters to register and existing voters to update their details or transfer their voting locations. The cut-off date for voter registration and transfers is set for October 1, after which no further changes will be permitted.
The voters’ register will then be displayed at all 322 polling stations in Kisoro District from October 14 to October 23, allowing citizens to verify their details. The Electoral Commission has also planned a six-day display of Parish Tribunal recommendations for inclusion or removal from the register, which will take place from October 23 to October 28.
Nomination and Campaign Timeline
Nomination of candidates for the vacant seats is scheduled for October 30 and 31 at the District Returning Officer’s office in Kisoro. Following the nominations, candidates will have a 12-day window from November 1 to November 12 to conduct campaign activities.
Polling for Special Interest Group Councillors is set for Monday, November 11, 2024, while the District Woman MP and other Local Government Councillors will be elected on Thursday, November 14, 2024. The Electoral Commission has assured the public of transparent and fair elections, encouraging all eligible voters to participate actively.
Hon. Sarah Mateke’s Legacy
The Kisoro Woman MP seat became vacant after the tragic passing of Hon. Sarah Mateke, who served as both Kisoro Woman MP and State Minister for Defence. Mateke’s death has left a significant gap in Kisoro’s political representation, and the upcoming by-election is expected to draw strong interest from political players seeking to fill her shoes.
Voter Participation and Democracy
Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, emphasized the importance of active voter participation in the upcoming by-elections. “The people of Kisoro have an opportunity to elect a new representative who will carry forward the work of the late Hon. Mateke. It is crucial that every eligible voter ensures their name is on the register and participates in the election process,” he stated.
The Electoral Commission has also urged political parties and candidates to adhere to the laws governing elections, ensuring a peaceful campaign period. Byabakama reminded candidates to respect the timelines and guidelines issued by the Commission to avoid unnecessary conflicts during the election period.
Looking Ahead
As Kisoro District prepares for this critical by-election, the focus is on ensuring a smooth process from voter registration to election day. With the death of Hon. Sarah Mateke still fresh in the minds of many, the upcoming vote will not only fill a political vacuum but will also honor her legacy. The Electoral Commission has assured citizens that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure a transparent, fair, and peaceful election in November.
