Govt Chief Whip Denies Knowledge of Cabinet Discussions on Electoral Reforms
The debate over electoral reforms in Uganda has taken a new turn, with Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua stating that no electoral reforms have been tabled before the cabinet.
His remarks contradict earlier statements made by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Nobert Mao, who claimed that the reforms had already been presented to the cabinet and were awaiting approval.
In a press briefing at Parliament, Obua declared, "Cabinet has not considered any reforms that will come," casting doubt on the government's commitment to pushing forward the much-anticipated reforms.
The delay in addressing these reforms has been a point of contention since the 2016 Supreme Court ruling, which, in response to a petition by former presidential candidate Amama Mbabazi, called for significant changes to safeguard Uganda’s elections.
The Supreme Court's 2016 ruling outlined the need for various electoral reforms to ensure free and fair elections. The ruling came after Mbabazi challenged the results of the 2016 presidential elections, revealing flaws in the electoral process.
Despite years passing since the ruling, the status of the reforms remains uncertain.
While Minister Mao recently stated that reforms had been tabled before the cabinet, Obua’s denial raises questions about whether the reforms are truly being considered.
Mao had earlier confirmed his push for the adoption of electronic voting and claimed the proposal faced challenges but was on track for approval.
The conflicting statements have prompted skepticism among legal experts and opposition politicians about the government's seriousness in tackling electoral reforms.
Lawyer Jude Mbabali expressed doubt, suggesting the government’s actions are merely symbolic.
"They are doing it as a semblance to show they are doing something but they are not serious with the reforms," Mbabali said.
Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda attributed the inconsistency to systemic failures, suggesting that some reforms might be discussed privately between key figures like President Museveni and Minister Mao, bypassing formal cabinet discussions.
"There is no cabinet without Museveni. Therefore Mao might have had a discussion with Museveni, neglecting the cabinet," Ssemujju remarked.
Meanwhile, the opposition is making its own efforts to propose reforms.
Nyendo-Mukungwe MP Matthias Mpuuga has announced plans to seek parliamentary approval for his version of electoral reforms.
This move may challenge government-led initiatives, sparking interest among political observers.
However, some analysts suggest that opposition-led proposals might face resistance in Parliament if they conflict with government interests.
There is also uncertainty surrounding the nature of the proposed reforms. Critics speculate that any changes brought before Parliament could primarily serve individual political agendas rather than addressing broader electoral concerns.
Mbabali warned that unless reforms promote fairness and transparency, they risk undermining Uganda’s democracy.
As the 2026 general elections draw closer, the window for meaningful reform is narrowing, and Ugandans are left questioning whether the government will prioritize the creation of a credible electoral system or allow the issue to remain embroiled in political controversy.