Kampala, Uganda: 20 September 2025- The Electoral Commission (EC) has released its final guidelines for the nomination of presidential candidates for the upcoming 2026 General Elections, slated for Tuesday, September 23, and Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
In a press statement issued by the EC Chairman, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the commission outlined the key requirements and procedures for the two-day nomination exercise, which will take place at the EC Head Office Grounds in Lubowa, Kampala.
Requirements for Aspirants:
According to the statement, all aspiring presidential candidates must be Ugandan citizens by birth, registered voters, and at least 18 years of age. They are required to submit certified copies of their educational qualifications, which must be a minimum of Advanced (A) Level or its equivalent. Furthermore, each aspirant’s nomination must be supported by a minimum of 100 registered voters from at least 98 districts, which constitutes two-thirds of all districts and cities in Uganda.
Aspirants must also provide a non-refundable nomination fee of Shillings 20 million.
The statement also emphasizes the submission of other vital documents, including a nomination paper in triplicate, a declaration of consent to nomination, proof of voter registration for the candidate and their supporters, and three recent postcard-sized photographs. A Certificate of Compliance issued by the Electoral Commission is also a prerequisite.
Venue Access and Logistics:
To ensure a smooth and orderly process, the EC has specified strict guidelines for access to the nomination venue. Only accredited and invited individuals will be allowed inside. Aspirants will be permitted to enter the venue accompanied by a maximum of 20 people, including themselves. The EC requires prior submission of the particulars of all accompanying individuals.
In a measure to manage traffic flow, aspiring candidates are restricted to using a convoy of no more than two vehicles, with each vehicle carrying a maximum of ten people, including the driver. The Uganda Police Force will be managing traffic along the designated routes leading to the nomination venue.
Post-Nomination Procedures:
The EC has designed a program to ensure the swift conduct of the nomination exercise, noting that the verification of supporter lists has been done in advance. Aspirants are required to be physically present and submit all necessary documents for final verification. Once satisfied that all requirements have been met, the Commission will officially declare the aspirant as duly nominated.
Nominated candidates will then be given the opportunity to briefly address the public through a dedicated media center set up at the venue.
Call for Adherence to Guidelines:
The statement concluded with a call from the Commission to all aspirants, their agents, and supporters to strictly adhere to the guidelines. The EC Chairman urged everyone to cooperate and follow the procedures to ensure a peaceful and lawful nomination exercise. Aspirants are also advised to bring their proposed campaign schedules to facilitate a smooth harmonization process for the campaign period, which is set to begin on September 29, 2025.
