The Electoral Commission (EC) has provided an update on the ongoing nomination of candidates for the 2025/2026 General Elections, confirming that the process is moving smoothly without major challenges.
Speaking at the Commission headquarters in Kampala, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama said the exercise, which began earlier this month, has so far been conducted successfully and in line with the electoral roadmap.
The nomination of candidates for District/City Chairpersons, Lord Mayor, and Councillors, including representatives of Special Interest Groups (SIGs), was held from 3rd to 5th September 2025. The next phase, covering Municipal Division Chairpersons and Councillors (including SIGs), will run from 11th to 24th September.
Justice Byabakama also confirmed that nominations for the 2026 Presidential Elections will take place on Tuesday 23rd and Wednesday 24th September 2025 at the Commission’s head office grounds in Lubowa, Wakiso District. The exercise will run from 10:00am to 4:00pm on both days.
According to the EC, aspiring presidential candidates must be Ugandan citizens by birth, registered voters aged 18 or above, and possess a minimum academic qualification of Advanced Level (A’ Level) or its equivalent. Candidates with foreign or equivalent qualifications are required to present certification from the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) and the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB).
In addition, each aspiring candidate must be endorsed by at least 100 registered voters drawn from a minimum of 98 districts—representing two-thirds of Uganda’s districts. To ease verification, the EC has urged aspirants to submit their supporter lists by 10th September 2025, two weeks before nomination day.
Justice Byabakama commended political parties, organisations, and independent aspirants who have complied with EC guidelines but expressed concern over the growing trend of raising allegations of irregularities through the media. He emphasised that complaints should be formally submitted in writing to the EC for investigation and resolution.
The Chairperson congratulated those already nominated and urged them to follow campaign guidelines as the process advances. He further called on aspirants, supporters, and all stakeholders to maintain peace and avoid actions that could destabilise the country during this critical electoral season.
