EC begins general update of national voters’ register ahead of 2026 elections

Left to Right: Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, EC chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama and Justice Minister Norbert Mao at the launch of the 2026 poll roadmap in Kampala on August 2, 2024. PHOTO | ABUBAKER LUBOWA
What you need to know:
- Registered voters wishing to transfer to new voting locations can apply for the transfer, provided they present proof of residence or origin within the parish of the new voting location.
The Electoral Commission (EC) on January 20 commenced the general update of the National Voters’ Register across Uganda, a 21-day exercise running until February 10, in preparation for the 2025-2026 General Elections.
The activity will be conducted daily, including weekends, at designated parish centers.
The exercise complies with Article 61 (1)(e) of the Constitution and Section 20 of the Electoral Commission Act (Cap 176), which mandates the EC to update the National Voters’ Register.
EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama explained that the exercise aims to register Ugandan citizens aged 18 and above who are not yet on the voters’ register.
“During this general update exercise, the Commission will register eligible Ugandan citizens of 18 years and above, who are not yet registered as voters. The Update Exercise will be a self-reporting process where individuals intending to register will appear in person at an update center, provide their details, have their photograph taken, and their signature and fingerprints captured,” he said.
Additionally, registered voters wishing to transfer to new voting locations can apply for the transfer, provided they present proof of residence or origin within the parish of the new voting location.
“Such applicants are required to present details of their previous voting location,” Justice Byabakama added.
The update will also enable voters to confirm their particulars on the register, verify their accuracy, and correct any errors.
Inclusion of learners and special interest groups
The EC will update details of learners previously registered by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) who have since turned 18. These individuals must present their National Identification Number (NIN) to be assigned polling stations within their parish of residence or origin.
“There is no need for such learners to register afresh. They should visit the registration center with their NIN to specify their preferred polling station,” the EC clarified.
The exercise will also involve compiling and updating registers for Special Interest Groups, including: national Youths Voters’ Register for Youth Councils and Committees elections, national PWDs Voters’ Register for Persons with Disabilities Councils and Committees elections,
national Older Persons Voters’ Register for Older Persons Councils and Committees elections.
During a recent briefing, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) President Mr Patrick Oboi Amuriat criticized the EC for limited communication about the electoral roadmap and allocating only 21 days for the exercise.
“This exercise involves registering new voters and updating voter details. As the FDC, we are deeply concerned about the limited time allocated to this critical exercise,” Mr Amuriat said.
He argued that the voter registration and update exercise requires at least two months to be effective.
EC spokesperson Mr Julius Mucunguzi expressed confidence in the Commission’s efforts to publicize the exercise.
“The exercise was announced publicly through various platforms, including print media and digital spaces. We are confident that the people who must know have known,” he said.
He added that the EC would continue enhancing its communication efforts through radio, television, and over 12,000 parish supervisors deployed nationwide.
The EC emphasized its commitment to ensuring every eligible citizen is informed and able to participate in the update process.