By Mulengera Reporters
The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially nominated Robert Kasibante, a first-time presidential candidate from the National Peasants’ Party, for the 2026 general elections.
Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, confirmed Kasibante’s nomination during a ceremony held at the EC headquarters and presented him with a security vehicle and six security personnel to ensure his protection throughout the campaign trail.
Kasibante’s nomination represents a milestone for the National Peasants’ Party, signaling its growing influence in Uganda’s political landscape.
The provision of security support highlights the Commission’s commitment to safeguarding candidates as they engage with voters nationwide during the intense campaign period.
In contrast, another aspirant, Elton Joseph Mabirizi, faced hurdles with his nomination process.
Mabirizi arrived at the EC’s Lweza Lubowa headquarters at 12:36 pm to submit his nomination documents, but his papers were found to be incomplete and non-compliant with the Commission’s legal requirements.
Justice Byabakama revealed that Mabirizi’s academic verification certificate, which was used in the 2016 general elections, had expired and had not been renewed.
Moreover, Mabirizi included a Master’s degree in his supporting documents that had not been verified by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), a mandatory requirement for all presidential candidates.
Following these findings, the EC Chairperson advised Mabirizi to correct the errors and return either before 4 pm on the same day or by the following day to proceed with his nomination.
Mabirizi accepted the advice and committed to submitting the required academic documents for verification to the NCHE.
Uganda’s electoral laws require presidential candidates to have at least a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or an equivalent qualification to be eligible for nomination.
This provision aims to ensure that candidates meet the minimum academic standards necessary to hold the highest office in the country.
Justice Byabakama reiterated the EC’s dedication to conducting the nomination process with transparency, integrity, and professionalism.
He stressed that all aspirants will be given a fair opportunity to comply with the legal requirements and urged candidates and supporters to observe peace and respect throughout the election period.
The nomination exercise is ongoing, with the official campaign period scheduled to begin on September 29, 2025, and run until January 12, 2026.
The EC calls on all stakeholders to adhere strictly to the guidelines to ensure a peaceful and credible electoral process. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
