Elections or Ejections? EC draws the line for 2026 race thousands face disqualification

If they miss resignation and qualification deadlines

The countdown to Uganda’s 2026 general elections has officially begun, and the rules are crystal clear: bring your qualifications, follow the law, or stay off the ballot.

In a sweeping and high-stakes press briefing on June 18, Electoral Commission chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama didn’t mince words this election cycle will be governed by strict timelines, airtight academic scrutiny, and zero tolerance for violence or illegality.

From the grassroots Special Interest Group (SIG) votes to the presidential race, every contender is now on notice. As Uganda prepares for what may be its most consequential vote in years, the message is unmistakable: the law is watching, and time is running out.

SIG elections: grassroots democracy in action

Already underway, the Special Interest Group (SIG) elections are providing a vital litmus test for Uganda’s readiness. On June 16 and 17, older persons and persons with disabilities (PWDs) elected their village committees across all 71,208 villages nationwide.

On June 19, youth committee elections will follow. These elections are conducted using a uniquely Ugandan model—voters lining up behind a candidate or their photo, a method praised for its simplicity and accessibility.

“The reports we have received… indicate that the concluded village committee elections were peaceful and conducted in an atmosphere of tranquility,” Byabakama said.

These SIGs are not just symbolic. They are embedded in Uganda’s constitutional effort to empower historically marginalized communities—giving them direct, grassroots representation in local and national governance.

A warning against vigilante security and electoral violence

But the peace has not been without its shadows. The EC has noted disturbing reports of some candidates forming informal “youth brigades” to guard votes or intimidate opponents. These self-styled vigilante groups, often cited as necessary due to alleged police bias, were flatly condemned by Byabakama.

“Such claims are irresponsible,” he said. “It is only the Uganda Police that is mandated to provide security during the electoral process.”

He further urged political parties and independents to avoid forming parallel security outfits, calling such acts unconstitutional and destabilizing. Byabakama’s message to Uganda’s youth was pointed and emotional: “You are our valued young people. Participate peacefully. Elections bring winners and losers, but that should not divide us.”

Legal Landmines Ahead for Aspirants Beyond the SIG elections, the EC Chair offered a sharp reminder to all who plan to contest for office: the legal bar is high—and non-negotiable.

Aspiring candidates must prove they meet academic qualifications and resign from public office by specific deadlines, or risk disqualification. The Commission has made clear that no statutory declaration or affidavit will be accepted in lieu of verified academic documents.

Even individuals whose academic qualifications were accepted in past elections are required to undergo the verification process once again for the 2025/26 electoral cycle. The Electoral Commission has set clear deadlines: aspirants for the presidency must have their academic qualifications verified by August 1, 2025, and must resign from public office by October 1, 2025.

Parliamentary candidates are expected to complete their academic verification by July 16, 2025, and resign by June 13, 2025. Those contesting for District Chairperson positions must meet their education requirements by July 3, 2025, and tender their resignation by August 2, 2025.

For candidates representing Special Interest Groups (SIGs), the resignation deadline was April 28, 2025. Qualifications earned abroad or claimed as equivalent to Uganda’s advanced-level education must be validated by both the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) and the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).

“No shortcuts,” said Byabakama. “If you do not meet the deadlines, your nomination papers will be void.”

Who must stay apolitical?

The EC also reiterated constitutional prohibitions on political engagement for certain groups. Members of the military, police, prisons service, civil service, and traditional or cultural institutions are barred from holding party office, canvassing support, or publicly engaging in partisan debates.

Party Sponsorship: A Matter of Protocol For those contesting under party banners, nomination papers must be officially endorsed and sealed by the party’s Secretary General or their designated representative.

The names of these endorsers must be submitted in advance to both the EC headquarters and local district returning officers.

Democracy on a deadline

Justice Byabakama’s address served as a reminder that Uganda’s democracy is underpinned not just by voting, but by rigorous adherence to law.

The EC’s roadmap underscores that elections are not spontaneous events—they are structured processes with high legal and civic expectations. Behind every procedural deadline lies a deeper story: one of young people organizing at village levels, of aspirants scrambling to meet requirements, and of a nation seeking to choose its future peacefully.

“Elections will come and go,” said Byabakama. “But Uganda must remain united, peaceful, and progressing.” With the general elections on the horizon, the message is unmistakable: the countdown has begun, and the rules are written in ink.

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