The Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), Justice Byabakama Simon Mugenyi has warned nominated candidates against making donations and engaging in fundraising functions that may be interpreted as bribing voters.
While addressing journalists on the progress made in the exercise of nomination of candidates for the General Elections 2025/2026 in Kampala today, Mr Byabakama said this may result in one presenting grounds for petitions that may result in disqualification.
Byabakama noted that the nomination of candidates for Local Government Councils Elections that begun on 3rd September has so far moved on smoothly.
“The exercise commenced on Wednesday 3rd September 2025, with the nomination of candidates for District/City Chairpersons, Lord Mayor, and Councillors, including Special Interest Groups (SIGs). The nomination for this category was concluded on Friday 5th September 2025” he said.
He however warned losers in the previous nominations to address their complaints with the commission instead of resorting to various platforms to express their complaints.
“Any individual or entity with a complaint is advised to submit it officially to the Electoral Commission, in writing, to enable the Commission to examine the matter and determine the appropriate course of action” he said.
Byabakama further advised all aspirants to follow the official payment procedures to avoid falling victim to fraud or misconduct during the nomination process.
The Chairperson also appealed to religious leaders of -churches and mosques -under their umbrella association, the Inter Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) to suspend organizing fundraising drives at which they invite politicians seeking votes, until the election season is over.
Byabakama noted that the presidential nominations, will take place at the proposed Electoral Commission headquarters in Lweza, Lubowa on Entebbe Road.
“All presidential aspirants who have fulfilled the necessary requirements, including the collection of at least 9800 endorsement signatures from at least 98 districts and payment of a non-refundable fee of Shs20 million, are expected to be nominated on September 23 and 24, 2025” he said.
The nomination exercise for municipal division chairpersons and councilors will run from September 11th to 24th, and that for sub county and town chairpersons and councillors from September 11th to 24th.
Byabakama urged all aspirants, their supports and other stakeholders to observe and maintain peace in the conduct of the nomination exercise and subsequent electoral activities.
“We should not allow elections to disrupt the prevailing peace and stability in our country” he said.
