By Our Reporter
The National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) has raised concerns after more than 10,000 national identity cards were flagged for irregularities during the ongoing mass ID renewal and registration campaign.
According to Claire Olama, Registrar at NIRA, the flagged identification records were discovered to contain inconsistencies ranging from falsified personal details to unauthorized changes in individual information. These anomalies, she warned, compromise the integrity of Uganda’s national identification system and could undermine public services and electoral processes.
“These irregularities disrupt our systems and hinder the accuracy of national data,” Olama stated. She further cautioned that individuals found guilty of intentionally submitting false or misleading information could face legal consequences under Uganda’s registration laws.
As part of the cleanup effort, NIRA has already successfully processed and renewed the ID records of approximately 2.5 million Ugandans, as the authority intensifies efforts to prepare a reliable and accurate national registry ahead of the 2026 general elections.
In addition to tackling data irregularities, NIRA has also issued a directive to schools and education institutions, warning against allowing minors—especially those under the age of 18—to take part in the exercise without the presence of a biological parent or legal guardian.
“Children need proper guidance, and it’s essential that a responsible adult is present to provide accurate information,” Olama emphasized, noting that such precautions are necessary to protect minors from misrepresentation and ensure the credibility of national records.
The mass ID renewal and registration campaign, which is being conducted in phases across the country, is part of a broader government initiative to streamline citizen identification, enhance public service delivery, and support credible electoral processes. Officials have urged all Ugandans to participate promptly and truthfully, warning that failure to renew IDs may result in restricted access to critical government services and voting rights.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, the quality and credibility of Uganda’s national registry are becoming central to broader concerns about transparency, inclusivity, and security in the democratic process.