Voter participation and credible elections in Uganda. a case of the presidential and parliamentary elections in Kampala and Wakiso Districts

Abstract

This research investigated the influence Voter Participation has on Credible elections in Uganda, with a specific focus on Kampala and Wakiso districts. The study was guided by three research objectives; to assess the relationship between Voter Turnout and Credible elections in Uganda , to examine the impact of Voter Engagement on Credible elections in Uganda and to establish the role of accessibility to voting in shaping the credibility of elections in Uganda. The study employed a qualitative approach by conducting a thorough literature review as well as obtaining interviews from key informants. The study hinged on the Theory of Communicative Action and the Political Party theory as well as on the Social Capital and the Civic Voluntarism models of Voter participation. The research findings revealed that voter turnout positively influences credibility of election with higher turnouts perceived to foster credible elections. The study findings further revealed that voter engagement has a significant impact on credible elections with an election where the electorate can participate without intimidation being perceived as free, fair, and hence credible. Additionally, accessibility to voting as well influences credibility of elections with an election in which the electorate easily accesses information and polling areas being deemed as free, fair, and credible. However, the study critically revealed discrepancies in the observed four Ugandan election cycles (2006, 2011,2016, and 2021) with instances of voter intimidation, heavy security deployment, and inadequate infrastructure being observed. The study notably observed that countries transitioning from military regimes to democracies, such as Uganda, often have limited opportunities for citizen engagement with restricted political competition. Given the country’s history of militarism, which is contained in the preamble to its constitution, the NRA/M government, introduced the Movement system of government which was essentially one-party rule. This situation prevailed until the 2005 Referendum, which saw political space reopened but the tendencies of militarism are yet to be addressed. Therefore, the study recommended the demilitarisation of the electoral process, implementation of targeted interventions that promote civic awareness and political inclusivity. In addition, to address the challenge of voter apathy and promote a more inclusive and democratic electoral process, the study recommended that policymakers, electoral authorities, and civil society organizations should take deliberate steps including implementation of effective voter education programs, improving electoral infrastructure, strengthening electoral management and enhancing transparency and accountability in the electoral process.