Justice Simon Byabakama laid down the law at Electoral Commission headquarters in Kampala, warning candidates and voters that Uganda's 2026 general elections will be tightly regulated. The EC chair confirmed that ballot printing is underway with both international and local companies, while 109,142 biometric verification kits have been procured to prevent fraud. Over 83,000 candidates were nominated for more than 45,000 positions, and the commission is processing hundreds of petitions daily.
Byabakama shut down the concept of vote protectors, saying anyone showing up with that label will be arrested since electoral law only allows polling officials, candidate agents, and police at stations. He defended police restrictions on campaign processions, arguing that candidates driving slowly on vehicle rooftops while waving at crowds obviously attracts congestion. When asked about using students at rallies, he pointed out that many secondary school students are registered voters who deserve to hear candidates speak.
The commission boss said the playing field is level for anyone following regulations, but candidates acting unteachable will face consequences.
Byabakama shut down the concept of vote protectors, saying anyone showing up with that label will be arrested since electoral law only allows polling officials, candidate agents, and police at stations. He defended police restrictions on campaign processions, arguing that candidates driving slowly on vehicle rooftops while waving at crowds obviously attracts congestion. When asked about using students at rallies, he pointed out that many secondary school students are registered voters who deserve to hear candidates speak.
The commission boss said the playing field is level for anyone following regulations, but candidates acting unteachable will face consequences.
