EC Confirms 21.68 Million Registered Voters, 50,739 Polling Stations as 2026 Election Preparations Intensify
KAMPALA,UGANDA
he Electoral Commission (EC) has issued a comprehensive progress report on preparations for the 2026 General Elections, providing an updated snapshot of voter registration, polling-station readiness, candidate nominations, and election-technology deployment.
During a press briefing on 26 November 2025, EC Chairperson Simon Byabakama reported that, as of 13 November 2025, 21,681,491 Ugandans have been registered to vote, with 10,334,362 males (47 %) and 11,347,129 females (53 %). This marks a steady increase compared to the previous election cycle.
The Commission confirmed that there are now 50,739 polling stations across the country. These are distributed across 146 districts, 312 counties, 353 constituencies, 2,191 sub-counties, 10,717 parishes, and 71,214 villages. EC officials stated that these stations are equipped to handle expected voter turnout, and measures have been put in place to avoid overcrowding on election day.
The EC also highlighted 83,597 candidates who have been cleared to contest for 45,505 elective positions, ranging from President to Sub-County Councillors. Due to the unfortunate death of some aspirants, EC will hold a fresh nomination round on 27 and 28 November 2025, but previously nominated candidates in unaffected areas will not have to reapply.
On the technical front, EC has procured 109,142 Biometric Voter Verification Kits (BVVKs) to ensure the “one-person, one-vote” principle is enforced. So far, 60,000 kits have been delivered, with the remaining units expected by the end of November. Over 50,000 staff will be recruited to operate the machines, supported by 1,050 trainers for nationwide deployment. Voter Location Slips (VLS) will be issued to help citizens locate their designated polling stations.
The Commission also warned political parties, candidates, and campaign teams against violating campaign guidelines. Only two polling agents per candidate per station will be allowed, and any breach of this regulation could result in sanctions. EC reminded the public that peaceful, lawful campaigning is critical to maintaining order during the electoral period.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Political parties welcomed the transparency of the EC report. Opposition leaders expressed cautious optimism that the voter registration figures and polling-station readiness indicate a credible framework for elections. Some civil-society groups, however, stressed that logistical preparedness must be accompanied by robust voter education to ensure all citizens understand the process, especially in rural and informal settlement areas.
Observers noted that the procurement of BVVKs is a positive step toward curbing electoral fraud. Yet, past election cycles in Uganda have shown that equipment alone does not guarantee smooth elections; training, distribution, and operational oversight remain crucial.
Why it Matters
This progress report provides the clearest pre-election picture yet for the 2026 polls. It indicates that Uganda is taking logistical steps to conduct elections that are transparent, credible, and accessible. For political actors, civil society, media, and international observers, these numbers and updates serve as benchmarks for monitoring fairness and integrity in the electoral process.
What to Watch For
Voter Location Slips (VLS): Delivery and accuracy of slips to all 21+ million voters.
BVVK Deployment: Proper distribution and functioning of biometric kits in all polling stations.
Fresh Nominations: New candidate filings on 27–28 November and resolution of disputes.
Campaign Conduct: Monitoring compliance with limits on polling agents and adherence to lawful campaigning.
Public Confidence: Voter awareness campaigns and civic engagement levels ahead of the election.
