The government is shutting down normal business so everyone can vote. President Yoweri Museveni declared two public holidays (15 and 16 January 2026) for the presidential and parliamentary elections, suspending official work nationwide. This move under the Public Holidays Act aims to promote broad voter participation and remove barriers to casting ballots.
The declaration comes after months of intensive nationwide campaigning by political actors. Analysts state the holidays will ease logistical challenges for voters needing to travel to their home areas. Civil society groups have long advocated for such measures to strengthen democratic inclusion.
Election stakeholders continue emphasizing the need for peaceful conduct and respect for the law as campaigns enter their final stretch. Authorities urged citizens to use the designated days responsibly and in a spirit of national unity. The administrative step is viewed as significant for ensuring uninhibited participation in the democratic process.
The declaration comes after months of intensive nationwide campaigning by political actors. Analysts state the holidays will ease logistical challenges for voters needing to travel to their home areas. Civil society groups have long advocated for such measures to strengthen democratic inclusion.
Election stakeholders continue emphasizing the need for peaceful conduct and respect for the law as campaigns enter their final stretch. Authorities urged citizens to use the designated days responsibly and in a spirit of national unity. The administrative step is viewed as significant for ensuring uninhibited participation in the democratic process.
