The Electoral Commission (EC) has unveiled the full programme for the 2025/2026 elections of Special Interest Groups (SIGs), setting a clear and structured path for a voting process that will extend from grassroots communities to national platforms.
The roadmap caters to three key groups—Older Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and the Youth—ensuring their voices are heard and represented from village committees to national councils.
The process begins on June 2 with nominations for village-level SIG committees, followed closely by campaign activities. By mid-June, the first round of voting will be underway, initiating a phased electoral cycle that will continue through to late August.
For these special interest groups, the roadmap provides not just an opportunity to vote, but to take the lead in shaping decisions that affect their lives. The EC has allocated separate, detailed timelines for each group, allowing for organised, inclusive participation at every stage.
Like the rhythm of a planting season, each phase of the election builds on the last—starting with village committees, then moving through parish, sub-county, and municipal levels, ultimately culminating in elections for national councils. The National Youth Council elections, scheduled for the end of August, will mark the final phase of the SIG electoral calendar.
The EC believes this inclusive and well-structured approach will result in stronger representation for groups that have often been marginalised in national politics.
“This programme is a call to duty for both the public and leaders at every level,” said Justice Simon Byabakama, EC Chairperson. “We encourage all eligible participants to engage responsibly and to observe the set timelines.”
Following the roadmap’s release, mobilisation efforts have already begun across the country. Community leaders, civil society organisations, and youth groups are actively preparing for the nomination and polling exercises—signalling the start of a significant democratic process for Uganda’s Special Interest Groups.
