By Mike Rwothomio | Zoomer Africa

The Greater Nebbi Elders Council, operating under the registered entity Vurra Pa Judongo Foundation Ltd, has formally requested accreditation as election witnesses (observers) for the upcoming 2026 General Elections in the Greater Nebbi sub-region, encompassing Nebbi, Pakwach, and Zombo districts.

In a letter dated January 2, 2026, addressed to the District Returning Officers of Zombo, Nebbi, and Pakwach, Council Chairperson Canon Kura Vasco outlined the group's intent to monitor the tallying of results at election centers.

The request emphasizes the Council's commitment to promoting a peaceful electoral process in the sub-region, which has a longstanding reputation for conducting calm and orderly campaigns.

The Greater Nebbi Elders Council (GN Vurra Pa Judongo Foundation Ltd) is a legally registered non-state actor comprising elders from the Greater Nebbi area.

Established to serve the communities of Nebbi, Pakwach, and Zombo districts, the Council focuses on four core mandates: guiding the regional development agenda, mediating conflicts to foster peace and unity, mentoring youth into responsible leadership, and advocating for the rights and well-being of elders.

The group positions itself as a key stakeholder in nurturing good governance and community harmony in the West Nile sub-region.

The Council has announced dedicated teams of respected elders and community leaders to serve as witnesses at tallying centers across the three districts:

Zombo District: Hon Pascal Wapokra, Hon Kakura Emmy, Elder Okecha Alexis, Elder Canon Onyuthi Chris

Nebbi District: Elder Dr Rubanga George, Elder Muhammad Uzelle, Elder Betty Acayo, Associate Elder Emilio Odongo

Pakwach District: Elder Nestore Jalobo, Elder Justin Birombo, Elder Ogentho Luka, Elder Peter Wathum Onega

According to the council, these teams are prepared to observe the tabulation of results, contributing to transparency and credibility in the democratic exercise.

Call for peaceful polling

In recent statements, the Council has appealed to all stakeholders to maintain peaceful campaigns and uphold harmony during the Thursday, January 15, 2026, general elections.

Greater Nebbi is widely recognized for its tradition of exercising restraint and peaceful participation in electoral processes, a legacy the elders aim to preserve amid the national vote for President, Parliament, and local councils.

The Electoral Commission of Uganda has set January 15, 2026, as the polling date for presidential and parliamentary elections, with various observer missions, including international ones, deployed nationwide to monitor proceedings.

To some members of the public, the Greater Nebbi Elders Council's initiative pinpoint the critical role of community elders in safeguarding electoral integrity and reinforcing peace in the sub-region as Ugandans head to the polls.

The Elders are ready to 'Observe' elections/ Photo credit: Jr

Mike Rwothomio is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot information hub