“Elections As a Political Gender Bridge.” a Case of the Electoral Commission Uganda

This paper examines the contribution of the electoral process in enhancing women participation in politics in Uganda. It should be noted that since 1986, there has been significant increase in women participation in politics in Uganda. Notably resulting from implementation of the affirmative action policies enacted by the Government. However, there is little research directed towards the contribution of electoral bodies in enhancing women participation in politics. Through a qualitative study of elections as a political gender bridge, I collected qualitative data from political leaders and members of the public. I examined how the electoral process presents as a vehicle for women participation in politics by establishing how the Electoral Commission is constituted, assessing the gender inclusiveness of the electoral process and examining the responsiveness of the women to the electoral programmes. The study established that the Electoral Commission, Uganda is an independent electoral body whose mandate to conduct elections is drawn from Articles 60 – 67 of the Constitution of Uganda as amended. Consequently, the Electoral Commission upholds the importance of women in governance and therefore, endeavours to organise a gender inclusive Electoral Process. It emerged that the participation of women in politics is still dwindled by socio-cultural factors that create marginalisation tendencies requiring specific strategies to minimise the impact.