In a strategic shift aimed at refining the country’s electoral process, the Electoral Commission has moved the presidential nomination dates to September 23 and 24, 2025, a week earlier than previously announced.
Initially slated for October 2 and 3, the revised dates were confirmed on Friday by EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, who said the change was designed to streamline post-nomination processes ahead of the 2025/2026 General Elections.
“The adjustment is intended to provide sufficient time for capturing nomination returns, producing ballot paper samples, harmonising campaign programmes, and signing of the memorandum of undertaking by candidates,” Byabakama said during a press briefing.
This adjustment means that the official presidential campaign season will now kick off on October 4, 2025, and run until January 12, 2026, offering candidates a more structured campaign window.
“This revised schedule will help protect the quality of the presidential campaign period,” he added.
Beyond the presidential race, the EC laid out fresh nomination dates for other elective positions:
Local Government nominations: September 3–12, 2025
Parliamentary nominations: September 16–17, 2025
Special Interest Group (SIG) nominations: December 8–12, 2025
Polling across all electoral levels—presidential, parliamentary, and local government—will take place between January 12 and February 9, 2026, marking a busy election stretch at the start of the new year.
The Commission also used the briefing to reiterate academic qualification requirements for aspirants, warning that certificates used in previous elections will not be accepted this time around.
Aspirants for President, MP, and District or City Chair must possess at least an Advanced Level (A’ Level) certificate or an officially recognized equivalent.
Candidates who studied outside Uganda or followed non-traditional educational paths must secure certificates of equivalency from the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) in consultation with UNEB.
“Aspirants must submit a valid certificate of equivalency at least two months before their nomination date,” Byabakama emphasized.
The EC clarified that this requirement does not apply to those with qualifications from Ugandan institutions or from the former University of East Africa.
The EC praised the engagement of Special Interest Groups—including older persons, persons with disabilities, and youth—in the election process, calling their involvement “essential to an inclusive democracy.”
The commission encouraged political parties, candidates, and stakeholders to adhere to the electoral roadmap and prepare accordingly for the revised timelines.
