MICHAEL N
Candidates and voters in Ntungamo Municipality have commended the Electoral Commission (EC) for deploying Biometric Voter Verification Kit (BVVK) machines during today’s municipal elections.
The elections, held across all 38 polling stations in Ntungamo Municipality, covered the positions of Mayor, Municipal Direct Male Councilor, and Female Councilors in the municipality’s three divisions and eight wards.
The Ntungamo Municipality mayoral race has attracted three male candidates:
Jacob Kafureeka Jack Jex, the NRM flag bearer, who has served as mayor since Ntungamo attained municipal status in 2010 and is seeking a fourth term, which would extend his leadership to 20 years.
Isha Kazibaya, an independent candidate who previously lost in the NRM primaries.
Hajji Akim Muheki Rwomushana, also running as an independent.
This marks the first time BVVK machines have been used in Ntungamo Municipality elections, following earlier local government, parliamentary, and presidential elections where the machines were not deployed.
Speaking to our reporter, independent candidate Isha Kazibaya welcomed the use of the BVVK machines, saying they have promoted calmness, transparency, and fairness throughout the voting process.
Kazibaya noted that in past elections, fears of ballot stuffing created tension among voters and agents, but the biometric system has greatly reduced such concerns.
Similarly, Hajji Akim Muheki Rwomushana expressed confidence in the credibility of the process, saying the BVVK machines ensure that every ballot cast is properly accounted for, especially during vote counting.
He added that the technology strengthens trust in the electoral process and minimizes manipulation.
The Electoral Commission has previously stated that the use of BVVK machines is aimed at enhancing electoral integrity by preventing multiple voting and ensuring that only verified voters participate in elections.
