The Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) expressed their approval of the Ministry of Local Government’s announcement regarding the upcoming Local Council 1 (LC1) and Local Council 2 (LC2) elections, which will take place in March 2026 after a long period of delay.
The party officials during a press conference held at Uganda House, February 18, 2026, declared their dedication to the election process while they criticized previous election delays as a demonstration of bad faith because the delays occurred despite available funds.
Spokesperson Arach Oyat Sharon emphasized the elections’ importance for grassroots governance, urging the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) to release guidelines and adopt secret ballots over lining up behind candidates, which exposes voters to identity theft and potential acts of violence and bribery.
“Voting should be by secret means to ensure harmony in our societies,” Sharon said, noting lining up fuels hatred and undermines voter integrity.
Sharon called on village and parish structures to identify candidates, encouraging youth to contest positions traditionally held by elders.
“Young people, please do not shy away. We can have a young generation in LC positions”, she added.
“UPC will announce their flag-bearer selection rules in the upcoming future,” Sharon confirmed.
The party dismissed Independent MPs crossing to NRM as “their cross to carry,” focusing on mobilization for 2031 presidential elections. UPC President Jimmy Akena was in Kitgum rallying support.
Sharon extended Ramadan and Lenten greetings while encouraging people to practice reflection and forgiveness while helping needy families. “UPC calls upon the Government to use this holy period to reflect in the spirit of good faith and release all political prisoners,” she said, including Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Sharon denounced NRM primary violence while supporting secret voting as a means to safeguard lives and ensure just electoral outcomes. The briefing highlighted UPC’s commitment to multi-party democracy and societal harmony.
