By Kakooza Derrick.
As the Uganda Christian University (UCU) Law Society prepares for its elections, the stakes seem higher than ever. This comes after the electoral commission decided to shift the elections that were always held in the Advent semester to the Trinity semester.
On the 13th February, the road map was released by the chairperson of the Electoral Commission Hon. Kinobere Marvin with applications expected from 24th February to 9th march.
“The shift of the elections was deliberate since the Advent semester is being phased out”, Kinobere stated.
‘’The law societies of the world have long been the custodians of civil discourse, standing as pioneers in shaping the ideals and professional principles that form the foundation of civilized, progressive, and modern societies’’ he added
When asked whether the current year four students will be able to also participate, he answered in affirmative that they will participate since most of them will still be doing their dissertations.
According to Namutebi Winnie, a senior member of the society, she states that ‘’We should look out for the values and principles that unite us, rather than those that divide us while participating in these elections.
Like in the past, this year’s law society elections are already living to the hype with aspirants already displaying their worth.
A section of students is confident about leadership of the electoral Commission to deliver free and fair elections Nuwamanya David also known as Arkash, states that “I trust the electoral commission headed by Kinobere that this election will be a transparent, free and fair one”.
“Well, it’s safe to say that there will be less technicalities since almost 90% of the law students will be on semester which is a major boost in this election”. Acen Gladys said
Eunice Nantongo Wangabira believes the elections will be tight “The atmosphere leading to the campaigns is quite intense however I believe that it’s going to be a rigorous, fair but cutthroat election” she said.
According to the road map, Nominations are expected on 19th March, Announcement of successful candidates after vetting on 16th March and polling on 28th May.
The upcoming UCU Law Society elections will be expected to navigate a highly charged political environment, balancing the society’s role in advising the three arms of government while maintaining its independence.
