The Minister of Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, has confirmed that elections for Local Council I (LC1) positions will proceed as planned, highlighting the government’s commitment to completing the electoral cycle for grassroots administrative units.

Speaking at the Uganda Media Center today, Tuesday, 24th February 2026, Minister Magyezi announced that LC1, LC2, and Women’s Council elections are scheduled for March 2026 and will be conducted using the traditional lining-up method across more than 70,000 villages nationwide.

“Following guidance from the President and high-level discussions, we will hold the elections in March, next month,” the Local Government Minister said.

Magyezi highlighted that the Electoral Commission is fully prepared to oversee the elections in accordance with the Local Government Act, with logistical and operational preparations already underway.

He addressed reports that his ministry had requested an additional UGX 58 billion from Parliament, explaining that the funds are needed to cover costs for one of the largest grassroots electoral exercises in the country.

“By the presidential swearing-in in May, we aim to have concluded all elections, ensuring local polls are completed on time,” the Minister stated.

These upcoming elections will restore democratically elected LC1 leaders, whose terms have been repeatedly extended after their mandates technically expired.

The village-level polls will run concurrently with Women’s Council elections, streamlining the process and strengthening local governance structures.

LC1 chairpersons play a critical role in community leadership, dispute resolution, and coordinating service delivery.

The successful completion of these elections is expected to provide a solid foundation for the new administration to focus on implementing its national manifesto without the interruption of midterm local elections.

Electoral Commission officials have indicated that detailed polling dates and guidelines will be released soon, while preparations such as voter verification and public mobilization are already in advanced stages.

Citizens are encouraged to stay informed through official channels as Uganda gears up for this foundational democratic exercise.

With preparations underway, the March elections are expected to reinforce local leadership structures, providing continuity and stability as the nation approaches the presidential swearing-in in May.