Uganda’s journey toward the 2026 General Elections has entered a decisive phase, with the Electoral Commission (EC) confirming substantial progress across all critical components of the electoral roadmap. Addressing the media in a comprehensive update, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi underscored the Commission’s readiness to deliver a transparent, credible, and well-organized election in line with its constitutional mandate under Articles 60 and 61 of the 1995 Constitution.
A Nation Mobilized: Key Milestones Achieved in the Roadmap
Since the launch of the General Elections Roadmap in August 2023, later revised in July 2024, the Commission has executed several foundational activities that anchor the integrity of the upcoming polls. These include:
| Activity |
|---|
| Demarcation of Local Government Electoral Areas and re-organization of polling stations. |
| General Update of the National Voters Register and compilation of Special Interest Group (SIG) registers. |
| Public display of the National Voters Register across the country. |
| Conduct of Special Interest Group (SIG) elections from village to national level. |
| Nomination of candidates at presidential, parliamentary, and local government levels. |
These milestones have paved the way for a smoothly progressing electoral season marked by increased stakeholder engagement, structured campaign activities, and heightened public awareness.
The Numbers Behind Uganda’s 2026 Elections
The EC released updated national statistics that illustrate the scale of the 2026 General Elections: Registered voters: 21,681,491: Females: 11,347,129 (53%) – Males: 10,334,362 (47%)
These figures reflect extensive national reach, requiring coordinated logistical preparation across every administrative tier.
To further ease voter access on polling day, the EC will soon commence the nationwide issuance of Voter Location Slips (VLS), ensuring every registered voter knows the exact polling station where they will cast their ballot.
83,597 Candidates Cleared to Contest
One of the defining features of the 2026 electoral cycle is broad political participation. A total of 83,597 candidates have been successfully nominated to contest for 45,505 elective positions, spanning: President, Members of Parliament, District and City Chairpersons, Mayors, Councillors at all levels and SIG representatives
However, the Commission has scheduled fresh nominations on 27–28 November 2025 in select areas where nominated candidates passed away. Previously nominated contestants in affected areas will not repeat the process.
Polling Days for the 2026 Elections
The EC reaffirmed a detailed schedule of polling dates across all elective positions. Key highlights include:
The Commission called upon political actors, civil society, and the public to prepare accordingly for meaningful participation.
Petitions: Transparency in Dispute Management
The EC received approximately 300 petitions and complaints arising from the nomination exercise at various levels. These are being adjudicated based on: Existing laws, The Commission’s constitutional mandate and Merit and supporting evidence.
While the number may appear large, it represents a small fraction of the 83,597 total nominations-demonstrating that the vast majority of processes unfolded smoothly.
Ballot Paper Production: International and Local Firms On Track
Ballot paper production for the 2026 elections is underway, handled by both international and local reputable printing firms, including: Al Ghurair Printing & Publishing LLC (Dubai, UAE), UniPrint (Durban, South Africa), Inform Lykos (Athens, Greece), Sintel Security (Nairobi, Kenya), Picfare Industries Ltd (Kampala, Uganda) and Graphics Systems Ltd (Kampala, Uganda)
To enhance transparency, political parties contesting the presidential race have been invited to submit names of official agents to witness ballot paper delivery both at Entebbe Airport and EC warehouses.
Digital Election Management: Upgraded Biometric Kits Deployed
In line with Statutory Instrument No. 2 of 2021, the EC has integrated advanced technology into the 2026 elections. A total of 109,142 Biometric Voter Verification Kits (BVVKs) have been procured:
- 60,000 kits are already in-country: 49,142 expected by end of November 2025
The devices use fingerprint and facial recognition to authenticate voter identity enhancing the “One Person, One Vote” principle. To support the deployment:
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| BVVK Operators Being Recruited | 50,739 |
| BVVK Trainers Undergoing Preparation | 1,050 |
A national demonstration programme will soon engage political parties, civil society, media, and observers.
Observer Accreditation and Media Access
Accreditation for national and international observers, as well as media practitioners, is underway in line with Section 16(1) of the Electoral Commission Act.
- Observers operating in Kampala, Wakiso, and Mukono will be accredited at EC Headquarters.
- Those assigned to other districts will be accredited at respective district offices.
Accreditation ensures structured, professional, and transparent monitoring during pre-polling, polling, counting, results declaration, and post-election processes.
Campaign Environment: Call for Lawful, Peaceful Conduct
While many candidates and supporters are adhering to campaign guidelines, the EC highlighted concerns including: Illegal processions, Disruptive impromptu meetings, Use of abusive or inciteful language and Defacing campaign posters.
The Commission condemned acts of violence and hooliganism and warned that sanctions will be applied against perpetrators. Scheduled dialogue sessions with presidential agents and security agencies are ongoing to address emerging issues.
A Commitment to a Peaceful, Credible Election
In closing, Justice Byabakama reaffirmed that Uganda is firmly on course to deliver regular, free, fair, and transparent elections in 2026. He emphasized that electoral integrity is a shared national responsibility, calling on all stakeholders, political actors, citizens, civil society, religious leaders, security agencies, and the media to uphold peace and lawful conduct throughout the entire electoral cycle.
The Electoral Commission pledged to continue providing timely updates as the country moves toward polling day.
