By BM
The Electoral Commission (EC) has sounded the alarm over a growing wave of fake National Identification Numbers (NINs) and forged particulars submitted by political aspirants ahead of the 2026 General Elections, a development now threatening the integrity of the nomination process at all levels.
“We’re seeing deliberate fraud,” warns EC:
According to EC Spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi, the commission has received numerous reports of aspirants presenting fake names, forged NINs, and even invalid photos of their Seconders.
These Seconders, key figures who endorse a candidate’s nomination — are legally required to be verified registered voters.
“What we’re witnessing is not just negligence; in some cases, it appears to be intentional misrepresentation,” Mucunguzi said. “Poor-quality photos, incorrect details, and even mismatched names are flooding our offices.”
Local candidates feel the heat
The controversy boiled over this week in Bukomansimbi District, where multiple local government aspirants were left stunned after EC officials rejected their nomination forms due to irregularities.
Errors ranged from invalid NINs of seconders to filing for the wrong positions.
Aspirants were told to rectify the issues or risk being locked out of the race entirely.
“I paid for proper documentation, only to find out my Seconders gave me wrong information,” said Francis Mbonye, running for District Councilor for the Elderly. “It’s disappointing and discouraging.”
Muweesi Denis Ntensibe, vying for the Bigasa Sub county seat, echoed similar frustrations.
“These errors, some beyond our control, could discourage honest candidates. It’s heartbreaking when you do everything right, pay all necessary fees, and still face disqualification.”
Julius Mukwaya, the incumbent councilor for Bukango Sub County, had his forms rejected entirely — he filed for the wrong position.
EC reminds candidates: Know the rules — or get left out
To avoid more disqualifications, the Electoral Commission is urging all aspiring candidates to strictly adhere to the nomination guidelines, which outline age limits, academic qualifications, nomination fees, and the required number of supporters.
These rules apply across positions — from presidential hopefuls to local councilors.
According to the most recent publicly available guidelines from the 2020–2021 elections, a presidential candidate must be at least 18 years old and hold an ‘A’ Level certificate or its equivalent.
They must be endorsed by at least 100 registered voters from at least two-thirds of all districts in Uganda and pay a nomination fee of 20 million shillings.
For Members of Parliament, the minimum age is also 18 years, with the same academic requirement (‘A’ Level or its equivalent). Each must be supported by at least 10 registered voters from their constituency and pay a nomination fee of 3 million shillings.
District or City Chairpersons must be 18 years or older, possess at least an ‘A’ Level education, and present 50 registered voters from at least two-thirds of the electoral areas (such as sub counties or divisions).
Their nomination fee is set at 200,000 shillings.
Municipality and City Division Chairpersons must be between 35 and 75 years old.
No formal education is required, but they must provide at least 20 registered voters from each electoral area.
The nomination fee is 100,000 shillings for Municipality Chairpersons and 50,000 shillings for City Division Chairpersons.
Sub County, Town Council, and Municipal Division Chairpersons must also fall within the 35 to 75 age bracket and meet the same requirements regarding supporters and fees as above.
Councilor positions, including District, City, Municipality, and Sub county levels, require candidates to be at least 18 years old.
No academic qualifications are needed, but they must present five registered voters from each electoral area. Nomination fees range from 20,000 to 50,000 shillings depending on the level.
Additionally, public officers seeking any elective position must resign from their posts at least 30 to 90 days before nomination day, depending on the office being contested.
Bukomansimbi District Returning Officer Ann Namatovu emphasized the importance of early submission and careful review.
“One simple mistake can cost your entire campaign,” she warned. “We urge all aspirants to double-check their Seconders’ details — names, NINs, and voter status — before filing.”
Why It Matters
With the 2026 elections drawing near, the Electoral Commission insists that accuracy and accountability in candidate nomination are non-negotiable.
“This is not just about paperwork, it’s about protecting democracy,” EC’s Mucunguzi stated. “Any attempt to game the system using fake information will be met with strict action.”
The message is clear: Follow the rules. Check your facts. Or stay out of the race.
