The Commission électorale nationale indépendante (CENI) presented the electoral mapping for Gitega province on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. This key process outlines the distribution of registration centers and polling stations within the province, a fundamental step for the upcoming electoral cycle. The mapping specifically concerns nine communes located in Gitega province, detailing the logistical framework for voter registration and the subsequent casting of ballots. This full plan aims to ensure equitable access to electoral services across the region.
Detailed Provincial Mapping
The electoral mapping detailed the allocation of registration centers and polling stations across Gitega province's nine communes. This careful distribution is designed to accommodate the voting population efficiently. Gitega commune, as the provincial capital and likely the most populous area, will be equipped with the largest allocation: 192 registration centers and 619 polling stations. Following this, Karusi commune is set to have 136 registration centers and 396 polling stations, reflecting its significant electoral footprint. Gishubi commune will host 128 registration centers and 294 polling stations, providing ample facilities for its residents.
Further allocations include Bugendana commune, which will be provided with 80 registration centers and 257 polling stations, ensuring local access for its voters. Shombo commune is planned to have 84 registration centers and 274 polling stations. Nyabihanga commune will receive 92 registration centers and 212 polling stations, while Mwaro commune will have 84 registration centers and 194 polling stations. Kiganda commune is slated for 71 registration centers and 180 polling stations, and Muramvya commune will be assigned 69 registration centers and 203 polling stations. This detailed breakdown shows CENI's effort to cover all areas of the province.
For the operational aspect of these centers, each registration center will be staffed by two agents: one registration agent responsible for recording voter details and one display agent tasked with managing voter lists and information. Five members will be recruited for each polling station to manage the electoral process on election day, overseeing ballot distribution, voter verification, and vote counting. This staffing plan is key for the smooth functioning of the electoral machinery.
Addressing Infrastructure Challenges
During the presentation, concerns were raised regarding the infrastructure designated for electoral activities. These concerns included the closure of some classrooms, the dilapidated state of certain schools intended as registration centers, and other schools deemed destroyed or unsuitable for electoral operations. These issues pose potential logistical hurdles for the upcoming elections. In response, the Commission électorale nationale indépendante (CENI) affirmed it will ensure that closed classrooms will still serve as polling stations for the upcoming elections, demonstrating a commitment to utilizing available spaces. Additionally, CENI plans to relocate registration centers from schools that have been destroyed or are otherwise unsuitable for electoral operations. This proactive measure aims to guarantee the accessibility and functionality of polling sites despite existing infrastructure challenges, ensuring that no voter is disenfranchised due to inadequate facilities.
Enrollment and Calendar Integrity
Categories of people eligible for new enrollment include individuals who had not reached 18 years of age during the legislative and communal elections held on June 5, 2025. This provision ensures that newly eligible young voters can participate in the democratic process. Additionally, repatriates and others unable to register for analyzed reasons will also be eligible for new enrollment, reflecting an inclusive approach to voter registration. Technical errors identified in displays will be corrected to avoid disrupting the electoral process, a critical step in maintaining the integrity of the voter rolls. Concerns were also raised regarding potential disruption to the electoral calendar due to these display errors. CENI plans to address these issues diligently to ensure the smooth progression of electoral activities and uphold the established timeline for the elections.