According to the Electoral Commission, district, city, municipal, and other local councilors are not required to meet any academic qualifications to run for office. This has been criticized by local leaders who argue that it compromises the quality of deliberations and decision-making.
Leaders in Moyo district are advocating for the establishment of minimum academic qualifications for lower local government councilors, citing the need to enhance legislative and oversight capabilities at these levels.
According to the Electoral Commission, district, city, municipal, and other local councilors are not required to meet any academic qualifications to run for office. This has been criticized by local leaders who argue that it compromises the quality of deliberations and decision-making.
During a community engagement at Moyo People’s Hall on Saturday, several leaders voiced concerns about the negative impact of low educational levels among councilors on service delivery. Jonathan Agwe, the Sub-county Chief of Metu, highlighted how this challenge hinders the enactment of necessary byelaws, affecting governance and community regulation.
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Samuel Dulu, LC3 Chairperson of Otce Sub-county, pointed out the difficulty councilors face in accurately documenting council deliberations in English when discussions occur in local languages.
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Sam J.B. Asusi, Moyo District Councilor and Secretary for Finance and Production, suggested that the minimum qualification for councilors should be a senior four certificate. He argued that councilors need sufficient education to understand and interpret laws.
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Asusi called on the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs to include this proposal among the electoral reforms being prepared for the next general elections. Minister Nobert Mao recently revealed that significant electoral reforms are under consideration by the Cabinet.
These include introducing electronic voting, banning fundraising during election campaigns to reduce financial influence, regulating freedom of speech and assembly during campaigns, restricting public servants from engaging in political activities, and limiting military involvement in elections.
As the 2026 general elections approach, the push for enhanced educational requirements for councilors adds to the growing list of proposed changes aimed at improving the governance and electoral process in Uganda.
Dominic Okumu
Freelancer