EC’s Byabakama Condemns Commercialization of Politics Uganda’s Electoral Commission (EC) Chairman, Justice Simon Byabakama, has strongly denounced the increasing commercialization of politics in the country. Speaking at a press conference, Byabakama lamented the erosion of public trust in the electoral process due to the influence of money in elections. “The commercialization of politics has rendered elections a mockery and reduced the credibility of our democratic institutions,” Byabakama said. “Elections have become a business venture for a few privileged individuals, who wield undue power by influencing voters through financial inducements.” The EC Chairman highlighted the negative consequences of commercialized politics, including vote-buying, corruption, and the marginalization of genuine candidates. He noted that the electoral law prohibits the use of money or gifts to induce voters, but these provisions are often flagrantly violated. “We have witnessed cases where voters are paid off with sums as low as 5,000 shillings to cast their ballots for certain candidates,” Byabakama said. “This is a betrayal of the spirit of democratic elections and undermines the integrity of the electoral process.” Byabakama urged political parties and candidates to embrace ethical and responsible campaign practices. He called for a concerted effort by all stakeholders to address the root causes of commercialization, such as the lack of political financing regulations and the poverty faced by many voters. The EC Chairman also warned that the Commission will take stern action against violators of the electoral law and those found guilty of engaging in corrupt practices. He urged the public to report any incidents of vote-buying or election-related bribery. “We cannot allow the integrity of our elections to be compromised,” Byabakama said. “The people of Uganda deserve free, fair, and transparent elections that reflect their genuine will.” The commercialization of politics has become a growing concern in Uganda, particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 general elections. Civil society groups and election observers have called for urgent measures to address this issue and restore public confidence in the electoral process.Elections and Youth Engagement in UgandaElections and Youth Engagement in Uganda At an Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) youth forum, the Chairman of the Electoral Commission (EC) of Uganda, Justice Simon Byabakama, raised concerns about the commercialization of politics and its impact on youth participation. Justice Byabakama noted that the increasing commercialization of elections poses a significant challenge for young people, as aspiring candidates for Parliament often require substantial financial resources. This raises questions about the caliber of leaders elected and the fairness of the electoral process. The EC Chairman expressed concern that Ugandan democracy appears to be heading towards a state of “auction,” where the highest bidder seems to have an advantage. He emphasized the need to address this issue and educate young people on specific government programs aimed at addressing youth unemployment. Byabakama advised youth leaders to sensitize their peers and make them aware of their potential beyond being mere “energy boosters” in political campaigns. He urged them to actively engage in electoral processes to avoid negative influences and promote peaceful elections. Despite these concerns, Byabakama highlighted the importance of youth participation in electoral processes. According to the EC, people aged 18 to 35 constitute about 70% of Uganda’s population, making them a significant demographic in the country’s electoral landscape. Their active engagement in elections, he argued, can help prevent electoral violence and build a more stable future for Uganda. To foster peaceful electoral processes, the IGAD Youth Forum for Peace Uganda Chapter’s leader, Dr. Mercy Kobusingye, emphasized the importance of empowering young leaders and promoting a positive mindset. She expressed the belief that by empowering young leaders, they can create positive change that will resonate within their communities.The East African Community (EAC) Deputy Secretary-General in charge of Political Federation, Hon. Julius Byabakama, has strongly condemned the commercialization of politics in the region. Speaking at the launch of the EAC-European Union (EU) joint project on Support to Democratic Electoral Processes in the East African Community, Byabakama said that the rampant use of money in politics is a threat to democracy. “The commercialization of politics is a serious threat to the integrity of our democratic processes,” he said. “It undermines the principles of equality and fairness, and it gives an unfair advantage to those with the most money.” He noted that the commercialization of politics is a growing problem in the EAC region, and it is a threat to the region’s stability and prosperity. “We must work together to address this problem,” he said. “We must strengthen our electoral laws and regulations, and we must find ways to reduce the influence of money in politics.” The EAC-EU joint project on Support to Democratic Electoral Processes in the East African Community is a four-year project that aims to strengthen democratic electoral processes in the region. The project will provide support to electoral management bodies, political parties, and civil society organizations in the EAC region. The project is funded by the EU and is implemented by the EAC Secretariat.