By Mulengera Reporters
The Electoral Commission of Uganda has officially closed the nomination process for presidential candidates ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama confirmed that eight individuals had successfully completed the nomination requirements and would appear on the ballot in January.
Speaking at the Commission’s headquarters at Lweza on Wednesday evening, Justice Byabakama described the event as a significant milestone in Uganda’s democratic journey.
He expressed gratitude to political party representatives, civil society, observers, the media, and other stakeholders who had attended the two-day nomination process.
He noted that the Commission had invited Ugandans interested in contesting for the country’s highest office to present the necessary documentation, including signatures of supporters, in order to be considered for nomination.
According to the Chairperson, the process had concluded successfully, resulting in the confirmation of eight candidates.
Among those nominated is the incumbent, Yoweri Tibuhaburwa Kaguta Museveni, representing the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Others include Robert Kasibante of the National Peasants’ Party, Elton Jospeh Mabiriizi of the Conservative Party, and James Nathan Nandala Mafabi from the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and Gregory Mugisha Mutu Oyera of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT).
The list also features Kyagulanyi St. Amurobert from the National Inter-Platform, Mubarak Munyagwa Serunga of the Common Man’s Party (CMP), and Frank Burira Kavinga of the Revolutionary People’s Party (RPP).
Justice Byabakama urged all candidates and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully during the campaign period.
He stressed the importance of respecting differing opinions and allowing every citizen the freedom to support a candidate of their choice without fear of victimization.
He reminded candidates that the law must be observed at all times and called on them to ensure their campaign activities do not disrupt public life.
He specifically advised against conducting rallies along public roads, in markets, near schools, health centers, or other sensitive public areas where citizens have the right to go about their daily business without interference.
The Commission also expressed its appreciation to the security forces for maintaining order during the nomination process.
Justice Byabakama emphasized that peace remains the cornerstone of a successful electoral process and urged all involved to reject violence in any form as the country moves toward the 2026 elections.
With the nomination phase complete, the campaign period is set to begin, leading up to the presidential election in January. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
