Uganda Elections 2026: Goodluck Jonathan Arrives in Kampala to Lead AU-COMESA-IGAD Observation Mission
Uganda’s capital, Kampala, received a high-level diplomatic arrival early Tuesday as the Head of the joint African Union (AU), Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Election Observation Mission touched down ahead of the country’s January 15 general elections.
The mission leader, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, arrived to oversee preparations and coordination activities connected to the multinational election observation exercise. PulseNets learnt that the visit is part of broader continental efforts to support credible electoral processes and democratic consolidation across Africa.
Speaking shortly after his arrival, Jonathan acknowledged the reception accorded to him and his delegation, noting the cooperation of Ugandan authorities and diplomatic officials. He expressed appreciation to officials of the African Union as well as staff of the Nigerian High Commission in Kampala for their hospitality and logistical support, PulseNets reported.
In a message directed at Ugandan voters and stakeholders, the former Nigerian leader underscored the importance of peace, transparency, and credibility in the forthcoming polls. According to information obtained by PulseNets, the observation mission is expected to engage electoral authorities, political actors, civil society groups, and other stakeholders in the days leading up to the vote.
Jonathan was quoted as saying: “I arrived in Kampala early this morning as Head of the combined AU, COMESA and IGAD Election Observation Mission to the January 15 general elections in the Republic of Uganda.”
He added: “I thank Ugandan officials, as well as staff of the African Union and the Nigerian High Commission in Kampala, for the warm reception.”
Emphasising the broader democratic significance of the elections, he further stated: “I wish the people of the Republic of Uganda a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process as we continue to consolidate democracy in the country and improve the course of governance on the African continent.”
Also Read: US bans Ugandan officials after anti-LGBTQI law
PulseNets understands that the joint AU-COMESA-IGAD mission will deploy observers across selected regions of Uganda, with a mandate to assess the conduct of the elections in line with regional and international democratic standards.
