Political Fever Hits Aspirants As EC Announces Fresh Dates For 2026 Elections

By Our Reporter

Kampala: The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially announced January 15, 2026, as the date for Uganda’s Presidential and Parliamentary elections, marking the formal countdown to a high-stakes political season. Campaigns are expected to close two days earlier, on January 13, 2026.

The announcement was made on Tuesday by EC Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, who cautioned all political actors to strictly observe electoral laws and conduct peaceful campaigns.

“Uganda shall be with or without elections,” Justice Byabakama stated firmly. “We appeal to candidates to abide by the law and avoid actions that could disrupt the process.”

In a detailed briefing, Justice Byabakama revealed that nominations for parliamentary aspirants will take place on October 22 and 23, 2025, stressing that the two-day window is final and non-negotiable.

“Take note of the two days for nominations. We normally do not extend,” he emphasized.

The EC also cautioned candidates not to begin campaigns before the official campaign period, which will be communicated after the nomination process concludes.

Justice Byabakama reiterated the Commission’s zero tolerance for electoral bribery, reminding candidates that the use of money to influence voters remains a criminal offense.

“The use of money to influence voters is prohibited by law,” he said. “It is a criminal offense.”

He further advised aspirants to suspend community fundraising activities during the campaign period and to ensure all campaign funds are handled transparently through formal banking channels.

The EC Chairperson also expressed concern over irregularities within some political parties, including delays, cancellations, and resubmissions of candidate lists. He warned that such internal disorganization could affect their participation in the elections.

“Streamline your internal processes as parties. There seems to be a disconnect,” he urged.

To ease the nomination process, the EC announced that candidates can now submit nomination papers at regional EC offices, rather than traveling to the national headquarters in Kampala.

Additional logistical and security measures include:

• Each candidate will be allowed a maximum of two vehicles during nominations.
• All nomination payments must be made using official bank receipts.

Although nominations are yet to begin, the EC disclosed that it is already handling two active petitions related to the upcoming elections. Justice Byabakama noted that the Commission is actively engaged in pre-election dispute resolution to ensure fairness and transparency.

Justice Byabakama acknowledged ongoing challenges in maintaining a clean national voters’ register, including cases of deceased persons still listed. He reassured the public that efforts are underway to rectify these issues and called for vigilance from all stakeholders.

He also reminded the public that, in line with the Constitution, fresh elections would be organized if a candidate dies during the electoral period.

As the country edges closer to election day, Justice Byabakama appealed to all candidates, political parties, and the public to maintain calm and civility.

“Let us remain civil; we don’t want the elections to look like your party primaries,” he said. “The peaceful presidential campaigns show that we can handle our own issues as a nation.”

With less than three months to the polls, the EC’s announcement sets the stage for a tense and closely watched election season as Uganda prepares to choose its next leaders amid heightened scrutiny on transparency, compliance, and peace.