By Rogers Wanambwa 

KIU, Main Campus - Last week, the Electoral Commission, which is headed by Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, released a new Electoral roadmap that indicated that general elections are to be held between January 10 and February 8, 2021. An actual date however, has not been set. 

The Electoral Commission also announced that because of COVID-19, social and physical distancing is still a must and hence those candidates seeking electoral positions in next year's general election will have to conduct their campaigns without physical contact as has been the case. 

According to the new road map, October 12 and 13, 2020 are the nomination dates for those seeking to enter or remain in Parliament and November 2 and 3, 2020 have been set as Presidential candidates' nomination date. 

“The Commission has done a risk analysis, the implications and instituted mitigation measures in line with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health. We have also considered the need to preserve the health of the Citizens vis-a-vis their constitutional and democratic right to elect leaders of their choice as guaranteed under the Constitution, and come up with a plan that ensures minimal person to person contact during the implementation of the electoral process.” said Mr Byabakama. 

Nomination forms are to be made available on the Electoral Commission's website and aspirants will be able to get them from there, print and fill them according to Mr Byabakama. 

“Mass rallies will not be allowed but campaigns will be conducted mainly through media. The commission will issue specific guidelines for each electoral activity under this revised roadmap in due course and will engage with various stakeholders on the same," said Mr Byabakama.  

In addition, the candidate will be allowed to move with only two people, a nominator and a seconder at the nominations. 

Picture credit: Internet photo