Campaigns Launch as Over 2,700 Candidates Vie for 519 Parliamentary Seats

The campaign trail for Uganda’s next Parliament officially opened today, as more than 2,700 contenders hit the ground to secure slots in the 519 elective positions ahead of the January 2026 General Elections.

A Nationwide Contest Begins

The Electoral Commission cleared 2,711 aspirants, although eight were returned unopposed, leaving 2,703 actively campaigning. The nationwide contest covers 353 constituency seats, 146 District Woman MP seats, and 20 Special Interest Group (SIG) positions representing youth, older persons, persons with disabilities, and workers.

Over half of the candidates are independents, reflecting a fiercely competitive cycle. Others represent 18 political parties, with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) expected to field the highest number of contestants, followed closely by the leading opposition formations.

EC Calls for Orderly Campaigns

As campaigns commence, the Electoral Commission has urged all candidates, agents and supporters to uphold peace and conduct themselves within the law. The commission emphasized that campaigns should run only between 7:00 am and 6:00 pm, and all candidates are required to submit and harmonise their programmes with district returning officers to prevent clashes.

In a bid to maintain fairness, the EC has prohibited the use of government resources for campaign purposes, voter bribery, sectarian messaging, defamation, and incitement. Violators risk sanctions, including fines and prosecution.

Campaign activities must halt at least 24 hours before polling day.

Huge Field Raises Stakes

Observers say the unusually large field of contestants signals heightened political interest but also raises concerns about potential campaign disorder. With thousands crisscrossing the country, the public is being urged to stay vigilant and engage meaningfully with candidates’ messages.

Editorial voices caution that voters should question campaign promises, especially where delivery falls outside the direct legislative mandate of MPs. Citizens are encouraged to scrutinize candidates’ track records, clarity of agenda, and understanding of local needs.

What to Watch

The election is expected to influence the composition of the 12th Parliament, which will play a critical role in shaping legislation, public spending, and national priorities over the next five years.

Key questions emerging include whether independents and smaller parties disrupt the dominance of major parties like NRM and NUP, whether campaigns can remain peaceful under high competition, and whether voters will demand accountability beyond rhetoric.

Campaigns will run for two months before the country goes to the polls on January 15, 2026. Over this period, Ugandans are expected to witness a flurry of rallies, policy debates, and community engagements as hopefuls traverse their constituencies.

For millions of citizens, this is more than a political event; it is a crucial moment to shape the nation’s future through informed electoral choice.