EC trains stakeholders as January 15–16 declared public holidays for elections

10 January 2026, 10:31 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Electoral Commission Returning Officer for Kampala District, Jennifer Kobutungi, has explained why the Commission conducted a stakeholders’ training ahead of the 2026 General Elections.

Speaking to the media yesterday in Kampala, Kobutungi said the workshop brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives of youth, workers, various organizations, the prisons service, the army, police, and the media.

“We have had a successful stakeholders’ workshop that cut across different sectors. We trained them because we wanted them to be on the same page with us. They need to understand where we have come from and where we are heading in regard to the polling process,” she said.

Kobutungi added that the training has given the Commission confidence that the stakeholders who attended are now familiar with their roles during the elections.

“They now know how polling stations will be set up and who will be present there. We are very ready,” she said.

She clarified that voters in barracks, prisons, and hospitals will be allowed to vote, but will use the polling stations where they originally registered, as there will be no polling stations inside those facilities.

“I urge all Ugandans to go and vote on January 15, 2026. The BVVK kit is mandatory, and you cannot vote unless it is used. Do not worry about the internet because it will be available, and trained polling officials will guide voters. However, come early to avoid congestion. Voting will start at 7:00 a.m. and end at 4:00 p.m.,” she said.

Meanwhile, President Yoweri Museveni has declared January 15 and 16, 2026, as public holidays to allow citizens to participate in the upcoming general elections.

In a statement issued through the media, Museveni said the declaration was made in exercise of the powers conferred upon him by Section 2(2) of the Public Holidays Act.

“I hereby declare January 15 and 16, 2026, to be observed as public holidays throughout Uganda for the purpose of enabling citizens to participate in the presidential and parliamentary elections,” the statement reads.

Separately, while campaigning in the Northern Region, President Museveni expressed appreciation to former United States President Donald Trump for imposing strict restrictions on people seeking to travel to the United States. Museveni said Africans should focus on developing their own countries instead of seeking opportunities abroad.