Uganda’s journey toward its next major electoral cycle has officially begun, following the release of a revised roadmap by the Electoral Commission (EC), detailing key dates and processes for the 2025/2026 general elections.
The revised roadmap outlines the schedule for presidential, parliamentary, and local government elections, and is designed to serve as a comprehensive planning tool for political actors and citizens alike.
Speaking at a press briefing in Kampala, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama explained the roadmap’s purpose, highlighting its national significance in organizing credible elections.
“This roadmap is not just for the Commission. It’s a national guide for political actors and citizens to ensure smooth, timely, and democratic participation,” Justice Byabakama stated.
Justice Byabakama confirmed that the general polling period for all major elective positions is slated for January 9 to February 9, 2026, aligning with Article 61(2) of Uganda’s Constitution.
The roadmap includes a sequence of structured electoral activities, beginning with the Special Interest Groups (SIGs).
On July 24 and 25, 2025, candidates representing Older Persons, Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), and Youth at the Municipality and City Division levels will be nominated.
On August 7, 2025, District Conferences for Non-Unionised Workers will convene to present their concerns and elect representatives.
From August 11 to 12, 2025, nominations for SIGs Committee candidates at the District and City levels will take place.
Campaigns for these SIGs candidates will run between August 13 and 17, 2025.
Polling for the SIG Committees, including Older Persons, PwDs, and Youth, will occur from August 15 to 19, 2025, across districts and cities.
On August 25, 2025, Regional Conferences will be held to elect Non-Unionised Workers’ Delegates to the national level.
Elections for Regional Older Persons’ Delegates to the national level are scheduled for August 27, 2025.
Between August 27 and 29, 2025, the National Youth Council Committee will undergo nomination, campaign, and polling processes.
Justice Byabakama further elaborated on the broader General Elections schedule, beginning with the nomination of Local Government candidates, including those from SIGs, from September 3 to 12, 2025.
Nomination of Parliamentary candidates will follow on September 16 and 17, 2025, in accordance with the Parliamentary Elections Act.
Presidential candidates will be nominated on September 23 and 24, 2025, under provisions of the Presidential Elections Act.
Campaign periods have also been clearly defined: Local Government and SIGs will campaign from September 13, 2025, to January 12, 2026; Parliamentary campaigns will run from September 23, 2025, to January 12, 2026; and Presidential candidates will campaign between October 4, 2025, and January 12, 2026.
Justice Byabakama reaffirmed the Electoral Commission’s commitment to transparent and credible elections.
“This is a critical period for our democracy. We call upon all political parties, aspiring candidates, civil society groups, and voters to engage constructively, adhere to the timelines, and avoid any actions that could undermine the electoral process,” he emphasized.
The Commission urged all eligible Ugandans to ensure they are registered and ready to vote, underscoring the importance of citizen participation in democratic governance.
Political parties and electoral stakeholders were also encouraged to observe peace and abide by the legal framework governing the electoral process.
As Uganda enters an important electoral season, the revised roadmap is expected to be central in fostering clarity, accountability, and nationwide involvement in selecting the country’s future leadership.
