2026 polls: 7 candidates die, EC to reopen nominations

EC chairperson Justice Simon Mugyenyi Byabakama said the new nomination exercise will take place on November 27 and November 28, 2025.

The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced fresh nominations in seven electoral areas after the death of candidates who had been cleared to run in the 2026 General Elections.

EC chairperson Justice Simon Mugyenyi Byabakama said the new nomination exercise will take place on November 27 and November 28, 2025.

Justice Byabakama said the decision follows Section 26 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, which requires the Commission to reopen nominations when a candidate dies before polling.

He noted that the EC had already completed the main nomination exercise, clearing 83,597 candidates for 45,505 elective positions from President to Sub-county Councillor.

“We must ensure that voters in the affected areas have a choice on polling day. Fresh nomination is therefore necessary to replace candidates who passed away,” Justice Byabakama said.

The deceased candidates include Tumwikirize Kaakuba Pagiel, an independent candidate for Sub-county Chairperson in Manyogaseka Sub-county, Kassanda; Kubal Patrick, the Male Older Persons representative for Loyoro Sub-county, Kaabong; and Wooti Julius Paul, the NRM candidate for the directly elected councillor seat in Buwakhata and Bukibokolo Sub-county, Bududa.

Others are Akello Joan, the NRM District Woman Councillor candidate for Ayabi Town Council, Kwania; Sembuzi Gerald, the NRM candidate for directly elected councillor in Kisailizi and Lwampanga Sub-county, Nakasongola; Nagudi Beth, the NRM Woman Councillor candidate for Bukiise Sub-county, Sironko; and Mwebaze Racheal, the NRM Woman Councillor candidate for Asinget and Kayoro Sub-county, Tororo.

Statement by the Chairperson, Electoral Commission on the Progress of Implementation of Activities Under the Roadmap for General Elections 2026

— The Electoral Commission - Uganda (@UgandaEC) November 26, 2025

Justice Byabakama clarified that candidates who were previously nominated in the affected areas will not be required to undergo nomination again.

“Only the positions left vacant by the deceased candidates will

be reopened,” he said.