The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has officially set January 15, 2026, as the date for Uganda’s presidential and parliamentary elections.
The announcement was made today by IEC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama during a press briefing at the Commission’s headquarters in Kampala. It comes just ahead of the parliamentary nomination process, which is scheduled to take place on October 22 and 23, 2025. Justice Byabakama also confirmed that all campaign activities must come to an end by January 13, 2026.
Campaigns for both parliamentary and local government positions will officially begin on October 10, 2025. Following the nomination exercise, candidates will hold coordination meetings between October 24 and 27 in their respective districts to harmonize campaign schedules and avoid clashes.
Justice Byabakama reminded all aspiring candidates to strictly adhere to the legal requirements before seeking nomination. He emphasized that failure to comply would result in immediate disqualification from the race.
To be eligible, candidates must be registered voters and must have completed Advanced Level (A-Level) education. They are also required to submit duly completed nomination forms, pay the prescribed nomination fees, provide proof of payment, and present the necessary endorsements supporting their candidacy.
Byabakama concluded by reaffirming the IEC’s commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and credible electoral process. He warned that the Commission will rigorously enforce all electoral laws and urged all candidates and stakeholders to conduct themselves in accordance with the rules throughout the electoral period.
As the country moves into a critical phase of the electoral calendar, preparations are now underway to ensure a smooth and transparent process leading up to polling day.
