The Electoral Commission of Uganda has made an important announcement regarding changes to the Roadmap for the 2025/2026 General Elections. Speaking at a press briefing held on 18th July 2025, the Chairperson of the Commission, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, revealed that the nomination dates for presidential candidates have been adjusted.
Initially, presidential nominations were set for the 2nd and 3rd of October 2025. However, these have now been moved to 23rd and 24th September 2025. Justice Byabakama explained that this decision was made to allow enough time for critical post-nomination activities. These include processing nomination returns, preparing sample ballot papers, harmonising campaign schedules, and signing the Memorandum of Undertaking by all nominated candidates. Keeping the original dates would have left little time for presidential campaigns.
In addition to the change in nomination dates, the Electoral Commission also reminded political parties, independent candidates, and the public to take note of other key dates. Nomination for Local Government candidates, including Special Interest Groups (SIGs), will take place from 3rd to 12th September 2025. Parliamentary nominations will be on 16th and 17th September 2025. Campaigns for all candidates—from local government to presidential level—will run from mid-September 2025 to 12th January 2026, with polling scheduled between 12th January and 9th February 2026.
Justice Byabakama also gave important guidance on pre-nomination requirements. Under the law, anyone running for President must be supported by at least 100 registered voters in at least two-thirds of all districts—about 97 districts in total. The Commission will soon announce when aspirants can start collecting supporter forms and nomination papers.
The Chairperson further addressed the issue of academic qualifications. He reminded aspirants for positions like President, Member of Parliament, and District Chairperson that they must hold at least an Advanced Level certificate or its equivalent. Those who studied outside Uganda must get their qualifications verified by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE). Certificates from past elections will not be accepted; only fresh certification will be considered valid for the 2025/2026 elections.
However, not all candidates need verification. Those who completed A-Level or higher education within Uganda, or studied at institutions under the former University of East Africa, are not required to verify their qualifications again.
In conclusion, the Electoral Commission thanked the public and stakeholders for their continued participation and support. Special appreciation was given to voters under Special Interest Groups—such as Youth, Persons with Disabilities, and Older Persons—for their active role in the ongoing electoral activities. The Commission urged everyone to follow the Roadmap closely and participate peacefully in the process. A soft copy of the updated Roadmap is available on the Commission’s official website: www.ec.or.ug.
