EC urges presidential, MP, and local council hopefuls to prepare

18 June 2025, 11:29 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Justice Simon Byabakama, speaking to journalists at the Commission’s headquarters in Kampala today, confirmed that no individual will be declared duly nominated for any position without fulfilling all the required criteria. He also addressed the nation on the Commission’s roadmap for the 2025/26 general elections.

“As part of the implementation of the 2025/26 General Elections Roadmap, the Electoral Commission is currently conducting elections for older persons, persons with disabilities, and youth. The process began with the nomination of candidates for village committees for all three special interest groups. These nominations took place concurrently from 2nd May to 10th June 2025 at the respective Sub-county, Town Council, and Municipal Division headquarters. Campaigns were then held, followed by polling,” he stated.

Justice Byabakama reiterated that, as previously communicated in earlier statements and the official roadmap, all individuals intending to contest for elective offices—namely President, Member of Parliament, and District Chairperson—must provide proof of resignation from public office, where applicable.

“A candidate must show evidence of resignation if they fall under that category, as well as proof of having completed a minimum of Advanced Level formal education or its equivalent,” said Byabakama.

The Commission continues to remind all aspiring candidates to prepare accordingly. The nomination deadlines are as follows:

• President – 1st August 2025
• Member of Parliament – 16th July 2025
• Local Government Councils – 3rd July 2025

Aspiring candidates are therefore urged to ensure they meet all necessary requirements in good time to avoid any inconveniences during the nomination process.