Uganda’s EC launches voter registration update for 2026 elections

KAMPALA, UGANDA — The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially launched a crucial voter registration and update exercise ahead of Uganda’s 2026 General Elections.

This initiative allows eligible voters to verify or update their details on the National Voters’ Register, ensuring they are ready to participate in the elections slated for January next year.

The Commission has announced that the exercise will take place at designated update stations in every parish. These locations are typically the same as polling stations or venues agreed upon in collaboration with local leaders and Electoral Commission parish supervisors.

The process began on Monday, January 20, and will continue until February 10. Services will be available daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., including weekends.

Julius Mucunguzi, the Electoral Commission’s Head of Public Relations and Spokesperson, clarified that the exercise is open to all Ugandan citizens aged 18 and above. Whether registering for the first time or updating existing details, individuals are required to self-report to ensure the accuracy of their information.

This initiative underscores the Commission’s commitment to facilitating a transparent and inclusive electoral process for all eligible Ugandans.

“The registration process is designed to be straightforward and simple,” Mucunguzi said. “Individuals intending to register as voters will need to visit an update centre in person, where they will provide their details, have their photograph taken, and their signature and fingerprints captured.”

Julius Mucunguzi, the Electoral Commission Spokesperson, has outlined essential requirements and procedures for Uganda’s ongoing voter registration and National Voters’ Register update. New voters are required to present their National Identification Number (NIN) to confirm their identity, along with their parents’ NINs. If a parent’s NIN is unavailable, proof of residence, such as a letter from the local council, must be provided.

For registered voters, the update exercise offers an opportunity to verify that their details are accurately captured in the Voters’ Register. This can be done online by visiting the Electoral Commission’s website and entering their NIN to view their information.

However, recognizing that internet access remains limited for most Ugandans, the Commission has made alternative arrangements. The Voters’ Register will be displayed at polling station update centers within each parish for easy access.

Voters who identify errors in their records are encouraged to report the issues to the registering officer. The officer will update the details upon reviewing the necessary supporting documents. The Commission clarified that corrections are limited to minor errors, such as misspelled names, gender discrepancies, or mismatches in photographs.

This update exercise is a critical step in ensuring that the Voters’ Register is accurate and inclusive, enabling a smooth electoral process for the 2026 General Elections.

“For clarity, such voters will not be able to change their age or date of birth, or add new names,” the document states.

Transferring voter location

The voter registration update process includes provisions for transferring voting locations, which can be more intricate than other updates. Individuals seeking to change their polling station must visit their previous voting location to provide details of their former registration and submit supporting documents. Among these is a letter from the local council confirming their origin in the area.

Julius Mucunguzi, the Electoral Commission Spokesperson, highlighted the need for proof of residency in the new location when applying for a transfer. This can be validated through documentation or by confirmation from local leaders and residents. To complete the transfer, voters must be physically present at the update center equipped with a registration kit.

Young individuals who were registered by the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) as learners and have since turned 18 will have their status automatically updated. These voters will be assigned polling stations within their respective parishes and are not required to re-register. However, they are encouraged to visit an update station with their National Identification Number (NIN) to confirm their details.

Special interest groups, including youth, persons with disabilities (PWDs), and older individuals, will also have their Voter Registers updated. This ensures that these groups are accurately represented in the upcoming 2026 General Elections, promoting inclusivity and equitable participation in the electoral process.

Why the process is critical

Eric Sabiti, the Head of Litigation at the Electoral Commission, has underscored the critical role of the voter registration update exercise. He highlighted that the process provides an opportunity for Ugandan citizens who have recently turned 18 to register and participate in the upcoming 2026 General Elections.

Additionally, the exercise enables existing voters to review and correct any inaccuracies in their details, with a particular focus on ensuring the accuracy of their names. Sabiti emphasized that this initiative is key to fostering a credible and inclusive electoral process, allowing all eligible citizens to exercise their democratic rights.

“This exercise also allows individuals to change their voting location if they wish, such as transferring from Kampala to Rwampara. Voters will be given forms to fill out at the voting centres for this purpose,” Sabiti explained.

Eric Sabiti, the Head of Litigation at the Electoral Commission, emphasized the necessity of participating in the voter registration update for all Ugandans intending to vote or run as candidates in the 2026 elections. He highlighted that failure to register or update voter details has previously led to disqualifications, particularly for those aspiring to represent specific constituencies.

Sabiti pointed to past instances, including a notable case in 2016, when Nobert Mao, now Uganda’s Minister for Constitutional Affairs and Justice, was disqualified from contesting for a parliamentary seat in Gulu. Mao’s disqualification stemmed from his failure to update his details in the Voters’ Register.

Sabiti urged citizens to take advantage of the current registration window to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements, stressing that this is critical for a smooth electoral process and active participation in Uganda’s democratic governance.

“Mao had intended to stand for MP in Gulu, but he was disqualified because he had not updated his details. Although Mao later petitioned the Constitutional Court, it was long after the election cycle had passed,” Sabiti said.