EAC, AU–COMESA–IGAD Deploy Election Observers for Uganda’s 2026 Polls

Regional blocs have formally deployed election observation missions to Uganda ahead of the General Elections scheduled for January 15, 2026, underscoring growing regional interest in the credibility and peaceful conduct of the polls.

The East African Community (EAC) on Tuesday officially launched and flagged off its Election Observation Mission, which will monitor the electoral process across the country. The mission comprises 61 observers drawn from EAC Partner States and the EAC Secretariat.

According to the EAC, the observers will assess the entire electoral cycle, including the pre-election environment, polling day activities, and the post-election phase, to provide a comprehensive and objective evaluation of how the elections are conducted.

“The Mission will observe the entire electoral process, including the pre-election environment, polling day activities, and the post-election phase, in order to provide a comprehensive and objective assessment of the conduct of the elections,” the EAC said at the launch.

In a parallel development, the Joint African Union–COMESA–IGAD Election Observation Mission has also stepped up its engagement with Ugandan electoral authorities. The mission held a high-level meeting with Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama to discuss Uganda’s readiness for the polls.

The joint mission is led by former Nigerian President H.E. Goodluck Jonathan, and includes Commander Abebe Muluneh, Head of the IGAD Secretariat delegation, Ambassador Shamsuldin Ahmed, Head of the COMESA delegation, and senior representatives from the African Union Commission’s Peace and Security Department.

“Discussions focused on institutional preparedness, results transmission, and transparent, accountable decision-making, underscoring a shared commitment to democratic governance,” the mission said in a statement after the meeting.

The Electoral Commission of Uganda confirmed the engagement, noting that it briefed the observers on the electoral roadmap, ongoing preparations, and measures in place to ensure a peaceful process.

“The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a transparent, credible and peaceful electoral process in line with regional and international best practices,” the Electoral Commission said.

The deployment of multiple regional and continental observer missions comes as Uganda enters the final days before polling, with authorities emphasizing transparency, accountability, and calm throughout the electoral process.