The Uganda Electoral Commission has revised the nomination dates for presidential candidates ahead of the 2025/2026 General Elections, citing the need to allow adequate time for post-nomination activities before the official campaign period begins.
In a press briefing held at the Commission headquarters in Kampala on Thursday, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi confirmed that the nominations, originally scheduled for October 2 and 3, 2025, will now take place earlier, on September 23 and 24, 2025.
Justice Byabakama explained that the adjustment was made to facilitate crucial post-nomination processes such as the verification of nomination returns, preparation of sample ballot papers, harmonization of campaign schedules, and signing of the Memorandum of Undertaking by all candidates.
“If we had retained the earlier nomination dates, these essential activities would have eaten into the campaign period. The Commission is committed to ensuring a well-coordinated and credible electoral process,” he said.
The revised schedule also includes updated timelines for nominations at all levels. Parliamentary aspirants will be nominated between September 16 and 17, while local government nominations will take place from September 3 to 12.
Presidential campaigns will officially kick off on October 4, running until January 12, 2026, ahead of polling, which is set to begin on January 12 and conclude by February 9, 2026.
The Electoral Commission also issued fresh guidance on the verification of academic qualifications for aspirants seeking positions of President, Member of Parliament, City or District Chairperson, and Lord Mayor.
According to the Commission, all such candidates must hold a minimum of Advanced Level (A-Level) or its equivalent.
Justice Byabakama clarified that aspirants who studied outside Uganda or whose qualifications were not obtained through Uganda’s A-Level system must obtain a Certificate of Equivalency from the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).
He emphasized that equivalency certificates from previous elections will not be accepted in the 2025/2026 cycle unless the individual has since acquired a higher qualification within Uganda.
“All certificates must be freshly verified, and this process must be concluded at least two months before the nomination dates,” he said.
Aspirants who hold Ugandan A-Level certificates or higher academic qualifications obtained in Uganda are exempted from this requirement. Similarly, those who studied at the former University of East Africa or its colleges are also not required to seek NCHE verification.
The Commission urged all political parties, organisations, and independent candidates to take note of the updated roadmap and adhere to the timelines to avoid disqualification or unnecessary delays.
Justice Byabakama also lauded Ugandans, particularly Special Interest Groups such as the Youth, Persons with Disabilities, and Older Persons, for participating in ongoing electoral activities and encouraged broader civic engagement as the country gears up for the 2026 polls.
“The credibility of any election lies not only in the conduct of the Electoral Commission but also in the vigilance, responsibility, and timely participation of all stakeholders,” he concluded.
