A wave of frustration swept through the BVVK Operators in Rukungiri District after they received unexpected news that they would not be needed at polling stations for the upcoming elections. The shocking announcement, made late the previous evening, sparked immediate protests outside the district headquarters, where dozens of operators gathered to voice their concerns.
Kamanzi Justus, a BVVK Operator stationed at Kitazigurukwa Primary School, expressed the bewilderment felt by many. “We trained for five days, investing not only time but over UGX 200,000 in transportation to get to the training centers,” he lamented. “To find out at the last minute that we are no longer needed is heart-wrenching.” The operators had geared up for a crucial role in the electoral process, only to face abrupt dismissal—while counterparts in other districts continued their work.
Ainembabazi Gift, another operator from Rwakabengo Health Center III, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the emotional and financial toll the decision has taken. “We need to know if we will receive payment for our efforts,” she said, pointing out that many had left jobs and families behind to serve the government in this capacity.
Cue in Justus and Gift Voxpop
Further more, the gathering continued raising their frustrations citing that some left their jobs, families hoping to work for the government but stressing that they are are now speechless
Cue in frustrations
As the crowd expressed their frustrations, Rukungiri District LC 5 Chairperson Geoffrey Kyomukama arrived to de-escalate the situation. He quickly reached out to Namara K Abas, the Returning Officer, asking for clarity and assurances for the operators. He further urged them to keep hopeful since the government had them on plan.
Cue in Kyomukama urging
Namara K Abas later addressed the crowd at the Rukungiri Electoral Commission Office, emphasizing that their appointments were still valid, despite not being utilized for this election. “Your pay for the training days is still guaranteed,” he reassured them, noting that the government was committed to ensuring no one would go unpaid.
The decision to exclude the operators from polling stations aimed to reduce crowding, with officials stressing the importance of maintaining order during the election process. “We don’t want overcrowding at polling stations, especially when a team of eight is already in place,” Abas explained.
Cue in Abas responding
Despite the chaotic turn of events, operators left the meeting with a renewed sense of hope. Leaders assured them that while this election might not showcase their skills, future opportunities would arise. The commitment to compensate them and the potential for BVVS machine utilization in upcoming elections brought some relief to the disappointed operators.
As Rukungiri prepares for the elections, the story of these operators serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges faced by those committed to serving their communities during critical democratic processes.
