Uganda is counting down to its general elections scheduled for January 15, 2026, with the Electoral Commission (EC) projecting that at least 21 million citizens will participate in the polls. Speaking at a press briefing in Kampala, EC chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama revealed that women make up 53% of registered voters, while men account for 47%, reflecting the significant role of women in shaping the country’s political future.
Justice Byabakama highlighted that Uganda currently has 146 districts, 312 counties, and 50,739 polling stations, with the EC’s preparations already in advanced stages. He also announced that November 27 and 28 have been set aside as special nomination days for constituencies where candidates passed away after their initial nomination. These fresh nominations will apply to both parliamentary and local government positions, ensuring that all voters have a chance to choose their representatives. Districts affected at the local government level include Kasanda, Kabong, Nakasongola, Sironko, Kwania, and Tororo.
To ensure smooth elections, the EC plans to recruit 1,000 temporary staff who will train election officers and familiarize them with the biometric voter verification technology that will once again be used, following its initial deployment in 2016. Justice Byabakama urged Ugandans to actively participate in the electoral process and to remain peaceful throughout the campaign period.
The EC chairperson also expressed concern over the increasing use of hate speech and tribal sentiments by some political actors, stressing that such behavior undermines democracy and does not reflect the qualities of a good leader. He emphasized that the EC will issue updated voter registers and campaign guidelines in the coming weeks to guide parties, candidates, and voters as they prepare for the elections.
As Uganda enters this crucial election season, political parties and candidates are intensifying their campaigns across the country. The focus now is on ensuring that the elections are free, fair, and peaceful, with the hope that all citizens will exercise their constitutional right to vote responsibly on January 15.
