The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially opened campaigns for candidates contesting for Parliamentary and Local Government positions ahead of the 2026 General Elections and issued a set of strict rules to guide all campaign activities.
The Commission, chaired by Justice Simon Byabakama, reminded candidates that campaigns must start at 7:00am and end strictly at 6:00pm, warning that those who violate the regulations risk penalties under the electoral laws.
According to the EC, both the giver and recipient of voter bribery will be held criminally liable. “Candidates, their agents and supporters must desist from involvement in voter bribery. The giver and ‘eater’ of the bribe are culpable,” the Commission stated.
Candidates are also prohibited from using sectarian or inflammatory language. The EC emphasized that campaigns must not divide Ugandans along tribal, ethnic, regional or religious lines.
The Commission further cautioned against the spread of misinformation and propaganda, particularly through social media platforms.
In addition, candidates are barred from holding campaign activities on public roads, markets, schools or hospitals, to avoid disrupting essential services. The EC reminded candidates that Senior Six candidates are sitting national exams and urged campaign teams to avoid unnecessary noise near schools.
“Treat one another with respect during campaigns. Supporting a different candidate does not make someone an enemy,” the Commission said.
The EC called for peaceful and orderly elections, urging the public to remember that “Elections are not a do-or-die affair” and should leave Uganda stable, united, and progressing.