EC Reschedules Parliamentary Nominations for 2025/2026 to October

“We have revised the nomination period for Members of Parliament and Special Interest Groups to ensure a more efficient and inclusive process that accommodates all stakeholders,” Justice Byabakama stated.

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Electoral Commission Chairperson , Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, during a press briefing held at the Commission headquarters in Kampala on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

The Electoral Commission of Uganda has announced significant revisions to the 2025/2026 General Elections roadmap, including the rescheduling of nomination dates for parliamentary candidates and Special Interest Groups (SIGs).

These changes are intended to improve overall preparedness and facilitate a smoother, more efficient implementation of the electoral process across all administrative levels.

The announcement was made by the  Electoral Commission Chairperson, Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, during a press briefing held at the Commission headquarters in Kampala on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

“We have revised the nomination period for Members of Parliament and Special Interest Groups to ensure a more efficient and inclusive process that accommodates all stakeholders,” Justice Byabakama stated.

According to the updated schedule, nominations for parliamentary candidates will now take place on Wednesday, 15th October, and Thursday, 16th October 2025, instead of the previously scheduled dates of 16th and 17th September 2025.

These nominations will be conducted at the offices of the respective District or City Returning Officers. Justice Byabakama explained that the revised timeline would provide candidates, especially those in newly created administrative units, sufficient time to complete preparations and fulfill nomination requirements.

“This change gives candidates, particularly those in new administrative areas, sufficient time to get ready and meet all the nomination conditions,” he said.

To support the revised schedule, the Commission announced that nomination forms and guidelines for parliamentary elections will be made available for download from the Electoral Commission’s official website beginning Monday, 11th August 2025.

“All aspiring candidates are advised to access the necessary forms early to avoid a last-minute rush,” Justice Byabakama urged.

In a related development, the Commission has opened the window for presidential aspirants to collect nomination and supporter forms.

The exercise will take place from Monday, 11th August to Wednesday, 24th September 2025, at the Electoral Commission’s Head Office located at Plot 1–3 and 5, 7th Street, Industrial Area, Kampala.

Justice Byabakama stressed the need for aspirants to collect the forms in person, noting that physical collection enables proper documentation and allows the Commission to notify local authorities ahead of field activities and consultations.

“We require presidential aspirants to collect the forms in person so that the Commission can properly document them and notify local authorities ahead of their activities,” he explained.

Under the Presidential Elections Act, presidential aspirants must collect signatures from at least 100 registered voters in two-thirds of Uganda’s districts using the official supporter forms.

The Commission also clarified procedures for individuals collecting nomination materials on behalf of political parties or independent candidates.

“An official from a political party must present written authorization signed by the Secretary General, while independent aspirants must provide proof of registration as voters,” said Justice Byabakama.

He also extended his appreciation to all stakeholders for their ongoing commitment to the electoral process, offering special recognition to participants in the Special Interest Groups elections particularly older persons, youth, and persons with disabilities for their active involvement and enthusiasm.

“We commend the enthusiasm shown by voters in the SIGs elections and encourage continued participation in the remaining activities of the roadmap,” he noted.

A soft copy of the revised electoral roadmap is now available on the Commission’s official website for public access and verification.

As Uganda prepares for the 2025/2026 General Elections, the Electoral Commission’s adjustments are a proactive step to ensure inclusivity, transparency, and effective participation.

With revised nomination dates and clearer guidelines, candidates and voters alike are being called upon to engage early and meaningfully in shaping the country’s democratic future.