ORGANISATIONAL CHALLENGES AFFECTING THE MANAGEMENT OF ELECTIONS IN A MULTI-PARTY DEMOCRACY BY THE UGANDA ELECTORAL COMMISSION

Abstract

The study was about the Organisational challenges affecting the Uganda Electoral Commission in the management of elections in a multiparty democracy. The study was guided by four objectives namely, to establish the relationship between publicity and voter education; examine the extent to which voter registration process challenges affect the management; asses the moderator effect of the legal framework and lastly analyse the moderator effect of funding on the management of elections in a multiparty democracy. The study was carried out among E.C employees, using simple random and purposive sampling techniques to identify the respondents. The methods used to collect data included questionnaires, interviews and review of documents. The data collected was analysed using descriptive statistical techniques, tabulations, correlations and regression analysis. The findings were; there is a significant relationship between publicity and voter education and the management of elections; voter registration has a positive relationship with the management of elections; there is a significant moderating effect between the legal framework and management of elections; finally the E.C receives insufficient funds and there is no significant relationship. Publicity and voter education is doing a commendable job and there is awareness among the population about electoral activities. The voters’ register is accurate, hence free and fair elections. Acts and guidelines and finally funds are vital for the electoral activities. The recommendation made are; more emphasis is needed in publicity and voter education, voter registration should be well facilitated, laws and regulations should be passed on time in consultation with the E.C and sufficient funds should be released on time. Further areas of research should include other factors that affect the management of elections like the political environment in the country.