The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, has cautioned political aspirants against violating electoral laws as the country gears up for the 2026 general elections. Speaking to journalists at the EC headquarters in Kampala on October 21, 2025, Justice Byabakama revealed that the commission is currently handling over 200 petitions from candidates contesting for various Local Government positions.
He acknowledged that the commission is overwhelmed by the high number of cases but assured the public that all will be resolved before campaigns officially begin. He urged candidates to remain patient and respect the EC’s processes as the commission works diligently to conclude the hearings.
Justice Byabakama reminded all local government aspirants that campaign activities are prohibited before the official campaign period begins on November 10, 2025. He warned those already conducting early campaigns to stop immediately, emphasizing that any breach of electoral guidelines will attract penalties. For Presidential and Parliamentary candidates, he stated that campaigns must end by January 13, 2026, two days before polling day on January 15, 2026.
He also announced that nominations for Members of Parliament will take place from October 22 to 23, 2025, across all districts and cities. However, nominations for special interest group MPs—including representatives of workers, youth, the elderly, and persons with disabilities—will be conducted separately. Justice Byabakama explained that directly elected MPs will be drawn from 363 constituencies, while Woman MPs will represent 146 districts. Each aspirant, he added, must be a Ugandan citizen, a registered voter aged 18 or above, and must present an acceptance letter from their appointed agent along with sponsor details.
Expressing concern over internal party conflicts, Justice Byabakama cited incidents where multiple officials from the same political party have attempted to nominate different candidates for the same position. He urged political parties to harmonize their internal processes and present one recognized flag bearer per position. He further reminded candidates to pay the Shs 3 million nomination fee directly to designated bank accounts, attach two passport-sized photographs for ballot printing, and comply with transport restrictions—allowing only two vehicles at nomination venues, each carrying a maximum of ten people with police-issued stickers.
Justice Byabakama also warned against voter bribery, describing it as a serious criminal offence, while clarifying that candidates are free to raise campaign funds lawfully. He disclosed that the EC has received reports of the death of some nominated candidates, prompting a fresh nomination exercise scheduled for October 27–28, 2025, limited to the affected positions.
In his concluding remarks, Justice Byabakama appealed for peace, fairness, and discipline throughout the electoral process. He reaffirmed the Electoral Commission’s commitment to ensuring a transparent, credible, and peaceful 2026 election, calling on all political actors to act responsibly as Uganda enters a critical stage of its democratic journey.
