Electoral commission prepares for parliamentary nomination process in Amolatar

22 October 2025, 8:36 am

By Alphonse Odur and Sarah Ejang

The Electoral Commission team at the Amolatar branch is fully prepared to conduct the nomination process for prospective members of parliament from October 22nd to 23rd, 2025.

During an exclusive interview with our reporter, Ms. Hope Irene Nakiru returning officer Amolatar, standing in for the chairperson of the Electoral Commission at the Amolatar branch, issued a stern warning to candidates regarding the use of forged certificates during this critical phase.

Ms. Nakiru emphasised, “Individuals who have utilised forged certificates should refrain from seeking nomination, as they will face serious consequences.”

Under the law, those found guilty of using forged educational qualifications may incur penalties of up to 4.8 million Ugandan shillings or face imprisonment for a term not exceeding 10 years, or both.

In her address, she also highlighted the importance of adhering to regulations surrounding campaign logistics.

She cautioned that any candidate utilising more than two vehicles carrying over ten individuals without appropriate police stickers would be committing an offense.

Upon conviction, potential penalties include a fine not exceeding 480,000 Ugandan shillings or imprisonment for a term not exceeding one year.

Furthermore, candidates must comply with specific regulations regarding vehicle convoys and the use of government resources, as outlined in sections 28 and 43 of the Penal Code.

Violations could similarly result in fines or imprisonment.

The upcoming nomination process will feature a total of 12 candidates, with seven scheduled for the first day and five on the following day.

To ensure a smooth process, Ms. Nakiru urged candidates to strictly adhere to all guidelines to prevent any disruptions or delays at the nomination site.

Each candidate’s nomination procedure will be limited to a concise 30-minute window.

Only three individuals will be permitted inside the commission office during the nomination process: the candidate, their proposer, and their seconder.

This measure aims to maintain order and efficiency throughout the event.

Prospective candidates are reminded of the essential qualifications required to stand for election as area members of parliament. These include being a citizen of Uganda and holding advanced education certificates or equivalent credentials, among other stipulated criteria.

Meanwhile, in Kwania, Sarah Keziah Birungi, the Returning Officer, confirmed their readiness for the impending nomination period.

As the nation gears up for this pivotal event, the Electoral Commission urges all participants to engage in a fair and transparent manner, ensuring that the democratic process remains robust and credible.