The Electoral Commission (EC) of Uganda has released the updated register of political parties that are legally recognized and cleared to participate in the 2026 general elections. This move comes as the country gears up for what is expected to be a highly competitive and closely watched election season.
The register was published following the Political Parties and Organizations Act. It lists parties that have fulfilled all legal requirements, including maintaining functional offices, submitting leadership structures, and providing official contact information. Only parties on this official list are allowed to carry out political activities, field candidates, and engage with voters ahead of the elections.
Uganda currently has more than 25 recognized political parties. These include both long-established parties such as the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Democratic Party (DP), and Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), as well as newer parties like the National Unity Platform (NUP), Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), and the National Economic Empowerment Dialogue (NEED). Other parties on the list include Justice Forum (JEEMA), Forum for Integrity in Leadership (FIL), Republican Women and Youth Party (RWYP), and Uganda Federal Alliance (UFA), among others.
The EC noted that the updated register includes each party’s physical address, registered leadership, and contact details. This transparency allows voters, analysts, and other stakeholders to access information about the parties and hold them accountable.
Political analysts say that while registration is an important step, the real challenge for these parties will be mobilizing support at the grassroots level and preparing credible candidates for the elections. With the list now official, political parties can begin their campaigns and voter engagement activities legally, ensuring a structured and orderly electoral process.
The release of this register marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s preparations for the 2026 general elections, highlighting the importance of transparency, accountability, and organized political participation.
