Over 17,000 expected to vote in Nyagatare

NYAGATARE - The National Electoral Commission (NEC), yesterday, continued with voters’ education in the Eastern Province, ahead of the August polls. At Rwimiyaga trading centre, Nyagatere district, NEC used musicians to appeal to the electorate. Famous musicians that included Erick Senderi and CPL Andrew Bakunda thrilled hundreds of residents. Frank Kayiranga, the NEC representative in the province, said NEC wants all eligible voters to be enlightened about elections. “Voters have indeed contextualised the idea of elections…we are only doing final touches to tell them how they are expected to behave before and after the election results,” he said. Over 17,000 people are expected to cast their votes at 112 polling stations in Nyagatare district, according to officials. Enock Byabashaija, the district Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Affairs, reiterated the importance of voters’ education, saying it was necessary for high voter turn out. “We want people to take elections seriously, attend in numbers and avoid voting on the basis of sentiments. We at the same time want them to help us prepare and clean polling stations. This is vital in democracy,” he noted. Mariya Mukatereza, 56, a resident of Nyarunfubire said many residents in the area were ready to vote. “We know how to go about elections, but of course our children may not be well informed. So, such sensitisation mainly helps the young voters and those who have not matured politically,” she said. Ends