KAMPALA UGANDA: May 8, 2026– The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially released the electoral roadmap for the by-election of the District Woman Member of Parliament for Kalangala District. The seat fell vacant following the death of the incumbent and MP-elect, Nakimuli Hellen, on April 19, 2026.
Addressing stakeholders during a consultative meeting on Friday, EC Chairperson Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon confirmed that polling will take place on Wednesday, June 24, 2026. The statutory 60-day period to fill the vacancy is set to expire on June 26.
The Commission has outlined several critical activities leading up to the June poll:
Voter Register Update: A three-day exercise will run from Monday, May 11 to Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 17 parish update stations.
Voter Register Display: The register will be displayed for public verification at all 115 polling stations from May 20 to May 29, 2026.
Nominations: Candidates will be nominated on June 10 and June 11, 2026, at the District Election Administrator’s office in Kalangala.
Campaign Period: Official campaigns are scheduled to run from June 12 to June 22, 2026.
To ensure a credible process, Justice Byabakama introduced strict measures to prevent the inflation of voter registers through illegal transfers.
LC I Verification: Any voter seeking a transfer into or within Kalangala must present a letter from their LC I Chairperson confirming residence or origin.
Biometric Verification: The Commission will mandate the use of the Biometric Voter Verification Kit (BVVK) at every polling station on election day.
Campaign Restrictions: Candidates are restricted to only two vehicles for nominations, each carrying a maximum of ten people. Additionally, the EC has banned campaign processions on public roads, urging the Uganda Police Force to enforce these guidelines.
The EC has committed to transparency by inviting candidates to witness the packing and dispatch of election materials. Furthermore, political parties and independent candidates will be provided with training for their polling agents on June 19 and 20 to equip them with the necessary skills to monitor the voting process effectively.
”The Commission pledges total commitment to organize and conduct the by-elections in a free and fair manner,” Justice Byabakama stated, calling upon all stakeholders to observe law and order to ensure a peaceful transition of leadership for the people of Kalangala.
Contact Information: Stakeholders seeking further clarification are advised to contact the Returning Officer for Kalangala, Mr. Agaba Ronald.
