KAMPALA, Uganda: Preparations to host the 2026 Presidential Election Debate are in advanced stages, according to Dr. Maggie Kigozi, a senior member of the Elders Forum of Uganda.
Dr. Kigozi, a renowned businesswoman, sportswoman, and industrialist, has revealed that the Elders Forum of Uganda and the Interreligious Council of Uganda (IRCU) are jointly organizing the high-profile debate.
“As elders and religious leaders, we find it important to organize a national platform where all eight presidential candidates will present their manifestos under one roof. This will allow the electorate to understand their positions and make informed voting decisions,” said Dr. Kigozi.
She added that the specific date for the debate, expected to take place towards the end of this year, will be announced soon once protocol arrangements between the candidates and the panel of moderators are finalized.
Dr. Kigozi also urged citizens to turn up in large numbers to vote for candidates of their choice on election day, while emphasizing the need for calm and peaceful conduct throughout the campaign period.
“We call for peaceful campaigns and elections free of violence. Ugandans of voting age should come out and exercise their constitutional right to vote for their preferred leaders,” she said.
She commended the Electoral Commission, security agencies, and other stakeholders for their efforts to ensure that the upcoming elections are conducted smoothly and leave the nation united.
Justice James Ogoola, Chairperson of the Elders Forum and retired senior judge, confirmed the ongoing preparations and echoed Dr. Kigozi’s call for peace and security before, during, and after the elections.
“Elections are a constitutional duty through which citizens choose their leaders to steer the country’s political and socio-economic development,” Justice Ogoola noted.
The Mufti of Uganda, Sheikh Dr. Shaban Ramadhan Mubajje, also expressed optimism that the country will hold peaceful and orderly elections. He called on all stakeholders to fulfill their roles in mobilizing citizens to vote responsibly.
“We hope to see Uganda go through the upcoming elections peacefully. Every stakeholder must play their part in ensuring free, fair, and credible polls,” said Dr. Mubajje.
