NEC clears 2,500 to contest in grassroots polls

A total of 2,506 candidates have been approved by the National Electoral Commission (NEC) to vie for various leadership positions across the country. This was revealed, yesterday, by the NEC Chairman, Prof Chrysologue Karangwa, during a press conference at the Commission’s headquarters. According to Prof Karangwa 2,511 individuals had presented their candidatures between January 21 and 24 but five of them did not qualify and were subsequently removed from the list. “This was done in line with article 39 and its sub-section 141 of the law governing the local government elections which states the requirements for anyone who wants to aspire for a leadership seat at these levels,” he said. Karangwa added that the candidates include general candidates and the women’s special councilors who would vie for various seats at village, cell, and sector levels. He further explained that the campaigns would commence on January 31, in the candidates’ respective jurisdictions and that the list of successful candidates could be accessed at the sector offices. “We have advised all the candidates to refrain from malpractices. And we are appealing to the general public and especially the media, to monitor and report such cases. You should take this responsibility and shame them where there is evidence” insisted the chairman. The elections will take place from February 4. Ends