As Uganda prepares for the 2025/2026 General Elections, the Electoral Commission has released important guidelines for all aspiring candidates. These apply especially to those interested in contesting for the positions of President, Member of Parliament, and District Chairperson. The key areas of concern are the verification and establishment of academic qualifications and the timelines for resignation from public service. All candidates are strongly advised to follow these instructions closely to avoid disqualification during the nomination process.
To begin with, all candidates must prove that they have attained the minimum academic requirement of Advanced Level (A-Level) education or its equivalent. Those who studied and obtained their A-Level certificates in Uganda do not need to verify their academic qualifications again. However, candidates who obtained their qualifications from outside Uganda must verify them with the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), in consultation with the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB). This also applies to candidates claiming to hold academic degrees from foreign institutions and those who were previously verified but have since acquired higher qualifications.
The Commission has made it clear that affidavits or statutory declarations will not be accepted as proof of academic qualifications. All documents must be supported by official verification and a certificate of equivalence issued by NCHE. Candidates are reminded that the verification process must be completed at least two months before nomination day. The set deadlines are: 1st August 2025 for Presidential aspirants, 16th July 2025 for Parliamentary aspirants, and 3rd July 2025 for District Chairperson aspirants. Failing to meet these deadlines will render a candidate ineligible for nomination.
Additionally, all individuals who previously received verification certificates in earlier elections must re-verify their academic qualifications if they have obtained new credentials or if they are running for a different office. This ensures that the Electoral Commission has up-to-date records and that all candidates meet the required academic standards for their intended positions.
Another major requirement is the resignation from public office. According to the law, any public servant who wishes to contest in the 2025/2026 elections must resign from their position at least two months before nomination day. This applies to those working in any public institution or government office. Candidates must present official letters proving their resignation when submitting their nomination papers. Failure to do so will lead to automatic disqualification, regardless of whether they meet all other requirements.
In conclusion, the Electoral Commission urges all aspiring candidates to strictly comply with these rules. Ensure your academic qualifications are verified on time, and if you’re in public service, resign well before the deadlines. The Commission will supply Electoral District Returning Officers with the list of candidates who have fulfilled these conditions. By planning early and following the guidelines, aspiring leaders can confidently pursue their ambitions and secure their place on the ballot for Uganda’s 2025/2026 General Elections.
