Uganda Declares Public Holidays Ahead of Presidential Election
Politics Updated: 10 January 2026 14:40 EAT
President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda campaigns for the sixth term
Uganda’s government has declared January 15 and 16 as nationwide public holidays to allow citizens to participate in the upcoming presidential and parliamentary elections. The declaration, issued under the Public Holidays Act, aims to remove work-related barriers to voter turnout.
Polling stations will operate from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. on January 15, the official election day, while the second holiday is expected to facilitate post-poll activities, including vote counting and transmission of results.
President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, is seeking a sixth term in office. His candidacy continues to dominate the political landscape as the country prepares for one of its most closely watched elections in decades.
The Electoral Commission has confirmed eight presidential candidates cleared to appear on the ballot after nomination and verification processes. Only candidates who met all legal and procedural requirements were approved.
Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, is among the frontrunners. Representing the National Unity Platform (NUP), he has promised reforms and pledged to review major national contracts if elected.
Other confirmed aspirants include Nathan Nandala Mafabi of the Forum for Democratic Change, Gen. Mugisha Muntu of the Alliance for National Transformation, and candidates from smaller parties including the Conservative Party, Common Man’s Party, Revolutionary People’s Party, and National Peasants Party.
The election campaign has been marked by high tensions, with reports of restrictions on media coverage and bans on broadcasting of protests or “unlawful processions.” Human rights groups have expressed concern about potential repression.
International observers have highlighted the need for a free and fair process, citing allegations of intimidation and harassment of opposition supporters in the run-up to the vote.
Despite these challenges, candidates have continued active campaigns across the country, with rallies, debates, and community engagements intensifying in the final days before the election.
Ugandans will head to the polls on Thursday, January 15, with the two-day public holiday intended to maximize participation in choosing the president and members of parliament, shaping the country’s governance for the next five years.
Tags: Editor's Pick Signsmedia Bob Wine Elections Museveni Yoweri Museveni Election Signstvkenya
Share this article
FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD