Former Nigerian President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has arrived in Kampala, Uganda, to lead a high-powered international election observation mission ahead of the country’s January 15 general elections.
Jonathan made the disclosure through a public statement shared on his official platform, announcing that he is serving as Head of the joint African Union (AU), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Election Observation Mission to the Republic of Uganda.
The former Nigerian leader arrived in the Ugandan capital early in the morning, officially kicking off the activities of the multinational observer delegation mandated to monitor the electoral process and assess its transparency, credibility, and adherence to democratic standards.
He expressed appreciation to Ugandan government officials for the warm reception accorded him and his team upon arrival. Jonathan also commended officials of the African Union as well as staff of the Nigerian High Commission in Kampala for their support and coordination, noting that their efforts were crucial to the smooth commencement of the mission.
The election observation mission is made up of experts and representatives drawn from various African countries, reflecting a continental commitment to safeguarding democratic governance and promoting credible elections across the region. The presence of the mission highlights the importance regional bodies attach to Uganda’s electoral process.
Uganda’s January 15 elections are expected to attract significant attention, both domestically and internationally, as citizens prepare to vote amid heightened political tension and strong competition among candidates. Previous elections in the country have generated controversy, making the role of international observers particularly critical at this time.
As head of the mission, Jonathan is expected to oversee pre-election engagements, election-day observation, and post-election assessments. Observers will monitor voter turnout, the conduct of electoral officials, security arrangements, media access, and the transparency of vote counting and result collation.
Jonathan used the opportunity to wish the people of Uganda a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process. He emphasized that credible elections are fundamental to consolidating democracy, strengthening public confidence in governance, and promoting political stability.
The former Nigerian president, who gained global recognition for conceding defeat peacefully during Nigeria’s 2015 presidential election, has since emerged as a leading advocate for democratic values across Africa. He has led several election observation missions and continues to play a key role in promoting conflict prevention and good governance.
Political analysts note that Jonathan’s leadership of the mission lends credibility and moral authority to the observation process. His experience as a former head of state and regional statesman is expected to reassure stakeholders of the mission’s neutrality and professionalism.
Jonathan also underscored the broader implications of Uganda’s elections for Africa, noting that successful and credible polls contribute to democratic growth not only within individual countries but across the continent as a whole.
As Uganda counts down to election day, the spotlight will remain firmly on how the process unfolds. Regional and international observers are expected to release preliminary findings shortly after voting, with a final report to follow containing recommendations aimed at strengthening future electoral processes in Uganda and beyond.