Chaos Halts LC1 Elections in Ibanda As Voting Is Suspended

Voting for the Local Council One (LC1) chairperson in Bihembe Cell, Keihangara Sub-county, Ibanda District, was suspended Tuesday after chaos erupted at the polling station, preventing residents from casting their ballots. The disruption stemmed from disagreements among voters regarding the number of people in the voting queue, leading to confusion and disorder.

“

The confusion arose after voters failed to agree on the number of people in the queue. The situation became chaotic, making it difficult for election officials to proceed with the voting process. Following guidance from the Electoral Commission, the election was postponed until further notice.

Ibanda Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Godfrey Mbetegyereize announced the postponement, stating that the Electoral Commission found it impossible to conduct a peaceful and credible election under the circumstances. "The confusion arose after voters failed to agree on the number of people in the queue. The situation became chaotic, making it difficult for election officials to proceed," Mbetegyereize said.

The postponement is intended to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and allow authorities to restore calm before a new polling date is announced. The RDC commended the deployed security personnel for their professional conduct in preventing the situation from escalating into violence. "Our officers acted within the law to restore calm and protect both voters and election officials," he added.

“

The responsibility of security is to ensure law and order throughout the electoral process. Our officers acted within the law to restore calm and protect both voters and election officials. We urge residents to remain peaceful as they await communication from the Electoral Commission.

Residents who arrived early expressed disappointment but appealed for a swift organization of fresh polling to allow them to exercise their democratic rights. The Electoral Commission is expected to announce a new date for the election once the situation is assessed and conditions are deemed conducive for a peaceful vote.

“

We came prepared to vote peacefully, but disagreements among some voters disrupted the exercise. We hope the Electoral Commission will announce another polling date soon so that everyone can vote without tension.