The Electoral Commission has issued a firm warning to bar owners and the general public about the sale of alcoholic drinks near polling stations on election day. According to the Commission, the law is very clear and must be respected by everyone involved in the electoral process. This directive is aimed at ensuring peace, order, and fairness during voting.
Speaking on the matter, the Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, reminded bar owners that no alcohol should be sold within a distance of 100 meters from any polling station. He emphasized that bars operating within this range must remain closed on polling day. This rule, he said, is not new, but it is often ignored, which creates unnecessary problems during elections.
Justice Byabakama explained that alcohol can easily lead to violence, disorder, and poor decision-making. When people drink, they may become aggressive or fail to follow voting procedures properly. The Commission wants voters to cast their ballots peacefully, freely, and with a clear mind, without any influence that could interfere with the process.
The Electoral Commission also noted that elections are a serious national exercise that requires discipline from both voters and business owners. Bar owners were urged to cooperate with security agencies and election officials by following the law. Failure to comply, the EC warned, could lead to arrests, fines, or closure of businesses.
Security agencies have been tasked to work closely with election officials to enforce this directive. They will patrol areas around polling stations to ensure that no alcohol is being sold illegally. Authorities say this is meant to protect voters and election workers, not to punish business owners.
The Commission further encouraged the public to report any bars or individuals violating this rule. Citizens were reminded that maintaining peace during elections is a shared responsibility. When everyone follows the law, elections become safer and more credible.
As the country prepares for polling day, the Electoral Commission called upon all Ugandans to put national interest first. Respecting election laws, including the ban on selling alcohol near polling stations, is one way of supporting democracy and ensuring that the voice of the people is heard without fear or chaos.
