By Atukwatse Ritah,
KAMPALA,
The Electoral Commission (EC) has launched a nationwide recruitment drive to hire more than 50,000 biometric voter verification kit operators and over 3,000 trainers in preparation for the 2026 General Elections. According to EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi, the newly recruited workers will play a critical role in operating and managing the biometric voter verification machines, which are being introduced at all polling stations across the country for the first time.
Mucunguzi explained that the Commission intends to deploy at least one machine operator at each of the more than 50,000 polling stations nationwide. Additionally, three trainers will be assigned to each of the more than 1,000 counties to ensure the smooth functioning of the biometric verification system. The trainers will be responsible for guiding operators and assisting voters during the verification process.
He further noted that the government has mandated biometric verification for every voter before they can receive a ballot paper during the 2026 elections. This system aims to prevent illegal voting, reduce the risk of multiple voting, and guarantee that every voter casts their ballot at the polling station where they are registered.
“The introduction of biometric verification is intended to enhance the integrity and credibility of the electoral process and fully uphold the principle of one man, one woman, one vote,” Mucunguzi said.
The Commission is now inviting all Ugandans who meet the required qualifications to apply for the positions. Individuals applying to become biometric machine operators must have a minimum of an A-level certificate, while those seeking to become trainers must hold at least a diploma. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the Electoral Commission website, read the detailed advert carefully, and submit their applications to the EC district offices across all 146 districts.
Mucunguzi emphasized that this recruitment is an opportunity for Ugandans to actively participate in strengthening democracy in the country. He said that by joining the EC as operators or trainers, citizens will contribute to ensuring a free, fair, transparent, and credible 2026 election. He also urged potential applicants to take the exercise seriously, highlighting that the roles require responsibility, integrity, and commitment to the electoral process.
The Commission believes that the successful implementation of the biometric voter verification system will significantly improve voter confidence, reduce electoral disputes, and demonstrate Uganda’s commitment to modern and transparent voting practices.
