ARUA .
The Electoral Commission (EC) has unveiled a regional office block and storage facility in the West Nile region ahead of next year’s General Elections .
Located next to Arua Central Police Station in Arua City, the first-ever regional Election Centre cost tax payers a whopping Shs1.86billion
In the 2023/2024 financial year, sh1.86 billion was allocated to commence the construction of the first Regional Election Centre in Arua city, serving the West Nile sub-region.
Speaking at the official opening of the Centre on Monday , Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister , Mr Norbert Mao, who represented Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja said government has a plan to erect similar election centres in other regions when resources are secured .
“This centre is going to serve the West Nile sub region and we pray that we get funds and put up similar facilities in other regions ,” he said
Justice Simon Byabakama, the EC chairperson, applauded the government for funding the project, saying most EC offices across the country operate in rented premises .
“I thank the leadership of Arua City for granting the space we are in now because countrywide Electoral Commission is housed in rented premises and it is therefore important that we embarked on building our own offices and it is my hope that what has happened in Arua City will be replicated in the eleven other regions,” he said
He said the building has enough office space for EC staff and storage of all electoral materials and equipment .
Mr Juma Shesa, the West Nile EC regional election officer, urged all stakeholders to ensure the new facility is put to good use .
“It is now our responsibility to take care and ensure the security and maintenance of this building so that when we come here two years later , it’s still magnificent as it is today ” he said .
Mr Sam Wadri Nyakua, the mayor of Arua City said he supported the project to come to Arua and acted faster to secure the land .
“When the issue came up, I acted so fast because I am a product of EC, how could I fail to find land for the Electoral Commission offices ,” he said