Kampala, Uganda – The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially set the dates for the nomination of presidential candidates ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections.
Aspiring candidates will have the opportunity to submit their nomination papers on Tuesday, 23rd September, and Wednesday, 24th September 2025 at the Electoral Commission Head Office Grounds, located at Plot 2508, Lubowa, along Kigo-Lweza Road in Makindye-Ssabagabo Municipality, Wakiso District. The nomination process will run from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on both days.
According to the EC, candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria. They must be Ugandan citizens by birth, registered voters, and at least 18 years old.
In addition, candidates are required to provide certified copies of educational certificates showing completion of a minimum of Advanced (A) Level education or its equivalent. Each nomination must be supported by at least 100 registered voters from no fewer than 98 districts, representing two-thirds of the country’s districts and cities.
The Commission has provided detailed nomination requirements. Candidates must submit their papers in triplicate, along with a declaration of consent to run, proof of education, proof of voter registration for themselves and their proposers and seconders, three recent passport-size photographs, a certificate of compliance from the Commission, and proof of payment of a non-refundable nomination fee of 20 million Ugandan Shillings.
Independent candidates are also required to select a campaign symbol and appoint an official agent. Additionally, candidates are encouraged to submit a proposed campaign schedule starting on 29th September 2025 to aid post-nomination coordination.
Access to the nomination venue will be strictly controlled. Only accredited individuals invited to participate in or observe the process will be allowed entry. The measure is intended to ensure a smooth, organized, and transparent nomination exercise, reflecting the Electoral Commission’s commitment to a fair and credible presidential election.
With these preparations underway, Uganda is set to witness a critical stage in its democratic process, as potential leaders take the first official step toward contesting the nation’s highest office. Citizens and political observers are expected to closely follow the nominations, marking the beginning of a pivotal period in the 2026 electoral cycle.
