By Mulengera Reporters
Uganda’s march toward the 2026 General Elections has taken a dramatic turn as the Electoral Commission announced fresh nomination dates in several areas where candidates passed away after being nominated.
The Commission, led by Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, confirmed that these unexpected vacancies must be filled to keep the election process on track.
According to the Commission, the country had already completed its massive nomination exercise, clearing 83,597 candidates to contest for 45,505 elective positions, from the presidency down to sub county councillor seats.
All these candidates were flagged off to begin campaigns under the Commission’s strict guidelines.
But with the unfortunate passing of some candidates, several electoral positions were suddenly left without valid contenders, triggering a legal requirement for fresh nominations.
Justice Byabakama explained that, in line with Section 26 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, Cap 177, the Electoral Commission has now scheduled Thursday 27th and Friday 28th November 2025 as the official days for these fresh nominations.
These dates will apply only to the affected electoral areas across the country.
Importantly, Byabakama clarified that any candidate who was already duly nominated for these positions before the deaths occurred will not be required to undergo nomination again.
Only the individuals seeking to replace the deceased candidates will need to submit fresh nomination papers.
The Commission has already advised all aspiring candidates in the affected areas to move quickly.
They are encouraged to pick up their nomination forms and guidelines from their District Electoral Commission offices.
Alternatively, they can download the soft copies from the EC’s official website. The Commission is urging timely compliance to ensure a smooth and orderly process.
With the election season already charged and thousands of candidates deep into campaign mode, these fresh nominations add another layer of intensity to an already heated race.
Uganda now watches closely as new contenders prepare to jump into the competition, ensuring that every position has a candidate when the country heads to the polls in 2026.
