Ugandans abroad may miss the 2026 elections, say officials

Summary:

• Ugandans abroad may miss 2026 elections without a diaspora policy. Ministry seeks diaspora input for effective engagement. Challenges include lack of IDs and legal protections. Proposal to allow diaspora voting underway.

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Ugandans living abroad might miss out on the 2026 elections unless the government swiftly devises a diaspora policy, according to officials from the Foreign Affairs ministry.

Johnny Muhindo, the head of the ministry’s Diaspora Department, highlighted Uganda’s lag behind Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania in implementing policies aimed at facilitating diaspora engagement. These countries have established frameworks simplifying government interaction with their diaspora populations, considering them as constituencies abroad.

Despite having a draft diaspora policy since 2020, Muhindo emphasized its inadequacy in addressing key elements crucial for effective diaspora engagement. He stressed the necessity for active involvement of the diaspora community in formulating the policy to ensure its relevance and effectiveness. Identifying their locations, demographics, and skillsets acquired abroad is imperative for tailoring appropriate measures.

The ministry estimates the diaspora population at 781,400 as of 2020, predominantly comprising migrant workers. Muhindo emphasized the need for a comprehensive diaspora policy to foster a sense of citizenship among Ugandans abroad, granting them access to essential services such as national IDs and dual citizenship.

Addressing legal concerns, Muhindo referenced a High Court ruling mandating the Electoral Commission to facilitate voting for both prisoners and Ugandans in the diaspora, citing constitutional rights violations. However, challenges persist, including the lack of national IDs hindering diaspora voting eligibility and legal ambiguities in addressing diaspora issues.

Despite Uganda’s global diplomatic presence with 38 embassies, Muhindo lamented the limited registration of Ugandans abroad due to inadequate outreach and awareness. Instances of diaspora fatalities and legal issues highlight the need for streamlined processes and legal frameworks to protect diaspora interests and hold perpetrators accountable.

Muhindo urged increased funding for the Foreign Affairs ministry to enhance diaspora mapping and engagement efforts. Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao plans to propose enabling legislation to allow diaspora voting in the 2026 elections, aligning with the High Court directive.