The Electoral Commission chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, has revealed that the elected presidential candidate in Thursday’s national polls will be declared with 48 hours (2 Days) after the close of the polls.
Justice Byabakama noted that vote counting and announcement will begin at district tally centres immediately after polling after which the results will then be transmitted to the national tally centre at Lubowa, Wakiso District.
Justice Byabakama has made the revelation while addressing journalists at the commission offices today, further noting that the commission will first compile results from all districts and cities at the national centre before officially declaring the final presidential results within two days.
He noted that all results will be sealed in tamper-proof envelopes that cannot be resealed once opened, assuring the public there’s no room for manipulation.
Justice Byabakama has further warned security agencies against abducting polling agents from their duty stations and are recognised by the country’s constitution.
“Agents being abducted by security, is not permitted, an agent is recognised by law, he or she is legitimately and officially at a polling station performing functions that are pertinent to a free and fair election” he said.
He however noted that the agent will be arrested in case he commits a crime at the polling station during the electoral process.
Justice Byabakama noted that each voter will receive three separate ballot papers which include one ballot for the presidential election, one for the District Woman Member of Parliament, and another for the Directly Elected Member of Parliament with each ballot to be cast into its own clearly labelled ballot box.
On Monday, the commission also flagged off the international election observers to move across the country as preparations intensify for the forthcoming elections.
According to Byabakama, the observers are required to carry accreditation tags at all times and report incidents through established channels, including district election administrators.
