The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has officially declared January 15, 2026, as the date for electing Uganda’s next president.
Justice Simon Byabakama, Chairperson of the Commission (EC), made the announcement on Tuesday (October 21, 2025) at the IEC headquarters in Kampala, while addressing journalists.
He noted that all presidential campaigns will stop 48 hours prior to the voting and polling date. The presidential campaigns began this month (October).
The presidential vote will mark the beginning of a broader election cycle that includes parliamentary and local government elections, scheduled to continue till February.
Byabakama urged Ugandans to remain peaceful throughout the process.
The incumbent Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Museveni and flag bearer for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) will be facing off other seven presidential candidates.
They include: Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) for National Unity Platform (NUP), James Nathan Nandala Mafabi (Forum for Democratic Change), Maj Gen. Mugisha Muntu (Alliance for National Transformation), Joseph Mabirizi (Conservative Party), Mubarak Munyagwa Sserunga (Common Man’s Party), Frank Kabinga Bulira (Reform Party of Uganda), and Robert Kasibante (National People’s Party).
This election will be closely watched both domestically and internationally, not only for the outcome but for the manner in which it is conducted.
Tensions remain high between opposition parties and the ruling government, but observers hope the electoral process will serve as a test of Uganda’s commitment to democratic principles.
As the countdown to January 15 begins, all eyes are on the campaign trail, and on the IEC to ensure transparency, security, and fairness in a vote that could shape Uganda’s political trajectory for years to come.
