Written By | BK Mugizi
Appointed, Richard Baabo
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The Electoral Commission of Uganda has appointed Richard Baabo Kamugisha as its new Secretary, effective March 4, 2026, confirming him in the position after serving in an acting capacity for over a year.
In a press statement issued on March 10, the Commission said Kamugisha had been acting as Secretary since late 2024 following the exit of his predecessor, Leonard Mulekwah.
As Secretary to the Commission, Kamugisha will also serve as the Accounting Officer and head of the technical management wing, responsible for overseeing the Commission’s administrative and operational activities.
The Secretary is the chief administrative officer of the Commission and is responsible for implementing decisions of the Commission and supervising the day-to-day management of the institution.
The Commission is chaired by Simon Byabakama.
Long Service
Kamugisha is a seasoned election management expert who has served the Electoral Commission for more than two decades.
He joined the Commission in 1999 and has risen through the ranks, serving in several key positions including District Registrar and District Returning Officer, Head of the Field Operations Department, and later Director of Operations.
In these roles, he played a key part in coordinating election field operations, supervising electoral officials across the country, and managing election logistics.
Background
Kamugisha replaces Mulekwah, who served as Secretary from 2020 until 2024, when he left the Commission.
Mulekwah’s exit followed his suspension, together with several senior officials, over allegations of financial mismanagement and irregular use of funds at the electoral body.
Following the development, Kamugisha—who was then Director of Operations—was appointed Acting Secretary to ensure continuity in the Commission’s operations.
Before Mulekwah, the position of Secretary was held by Sam Rwakoojo, who served for about 17 years before leaving the Commission in 2020.
According to the Electoral Commission Act, the Secretary serves a five-year term, renewable once.
The Electoral Commission is mandated under the Constitution of Uganda to organise and conduct regular, free and fair elections and referenda, as well as oversee voter registration and regulate electoral activities in the country.
Kamugisha’s confirmation comes as the Commission continues preparations for upcoming electoral activities, including elections for Local Council I and II chairpersons and Women Councils.
Torch Media Africa
