EC releases new election dates as UPC ends nominations

18 July 2025, 4:35 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Uganda’s Electoral Commission (EC) has announced new key dates for the 2026 general elections and called for calm and cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful process.

Speaking at a press briefing in Kampala today, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama confirmed that nominations for presidential candidates will take place on 23rd and 24th September 2025, while nominations for Members of Parliament are set for 16th and 17th September 2025. Nominations for Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and local government positions will run from 8th December 2025 to 12th January 2026.

Presidential campaigns will officially run from 4th October 2025 to 12th January 2026, with local government campaigns starting 13th September 2025. Voting for all levels will be held between 12th January and 9th February 2026.

Justice Byabakama also clarified that candidates with Ugandan Advanced Level certificates do not need certification from the National Council for Higher Education. However, those with equivalent foreign qualifications must have their documents verified and submitted at least two months before voting.

“I want to thank our stakeholders for ensuring a peaceful election process. We urge the public to remain calm and avoid any acts of violence before and during the elections,” Byabakama said.

Meanwhile, the Uganda Peoples Congress (UPC) party has concluded its nomination exercise. Soroti City East MP aspirant Eluju Patrick pledged to tackle challenges in his constituency, while Nantege Christine, who wants to represent Kampala District as Woman MP, promised to improve city infrastructure.

“Kampala has many potholes because leaders have failed to deliver. I want to change this and I ask Kampala residents to trust me with their votes,” Nantege said.

The UPC Electoral Commission described the internal nominations as successful and encouraged members to maintain unity as the party prepares for the 2026 polls.