UGANDA ELECTORAL COMMISSION CHAIRPERSON SIMON BYABAKAMA

BY ROSE KASIGWA

The Electoral Commission of Uganda, led by Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, has officially confirmed that the next presidential and parliamentary general elections are scheduled to take place on Thursday, January 15, 2026.

This announcement was made during a press conference held at the Commission’s headquarters in Kampala, outlining the comprehensive electoral roadmap for the 2026 general elections.

The constitutional provisions and electoral laws, mandate that general elections be held within the first 30 days of the last 90 days before the expiration of the current term of Parliament.

The Commission has urged all stakeholders, including political parties, civil society organizations, and the electorate, to prepare accordingly for the upcoming polls.

Further details regarding voter, nomination of candidates, Byabakama confirmed that parliamentary nominations will take place from October 22 to 23, 2025, while all campaigns for both presidential and parliamentary candidates must conclude by January 13, 2026.

Campaigns for parliamentary and local government candidates are set to begin on November 10, 2025. Byabakama further revealed that coordination meetings will be held from October 24 to 27, 2025, to harmonize campaign schedules for candidates at the district level, ensuring there is no overlap or conflict of interests.

Byabakama emphasized that candidates would be rejected if they fail to satisfy essential requirements, including completion of Advanced Level education, voter registration, and submission of valid endorsements.

Additionally, aspirants must submit completed nomination forms, pay the required fees, and provide proof of payment.

Byabakama assured the public that the Commission will enforce regulations governing campaign finance, voter registration accuracy, to ensure fairness and transparency of the electoral process.