Uganda has officially launched the first phase of the 2026 general elections today with the election of village committees for older persons across more than 71,000 villages nationwide.
This initial exercise, conducted under the Electoral Commission’s official road map, is specifically dedicated to Ugandan citizens aged 60 and above who appear on both the national voters register and the older persons voters register in their respective villages.
Julius Mucunguzi, the spokesperson for the Electoral Commission, emphasized the significance of today’s elections, describing them as a vital step in promoting inclusive governance.
“These special interest group elections, starting today with the elections of village committees for older persons, are very critical. They provide a mechanism and a process for ultimately getting leaders for these groups at parish, sub-county, district, and national levels,” Mucunguzi said.
Each village committee for older persons will consist of five members: the Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Secretary, Vice Secretary, and Treasurer.
Voting is being conducted by lining up, a method where voters physically stand behind their preferred candidate, their portrait, symbol, or appointed agent.
Polling is scheduled between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM. However, Mucunguzi noted that before the start of voting, Electoral Commission officials will conduct civic education at each polling location to sensitize voters on the process and ensure smooth and peaceful participation.
“The lining-up exercise will be conducted from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. From 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, our officials will complete the declaration forms based on the election results,” he added.
Mucunguzi called upon all eligible older persons to participate fully in the election, stressing that these polls are rooted in the principles of affirmative action embedded in the 1995 Constitution.
“These elections were designed to give special attention to categories of people who have historically been disadvantaged, including older persons, youth, and persons with disabilities,” he said.
He also urged the public to adhere to electoral guidelines and conduct themselves peacefully during the process.
“We call upon all eligible older persons to show up and participate. Let us follow all guidelines, respect the laws, and ensure that Uganda continues to be a beacon of free and fair electoral processes,” Mucunguzi stated.
The outcomes of these village elections will feed into the selection of leaders at higher administrative levels including sub-county, district, and national structures eventually culminating in the election of Members of Parliament representing special interest groups.
