In a groundbreaking declaration, the Electoral Commission of Uganda has assured citizens that they do not need to present a National Identity Card (ID) or a voter location slip in order to vote in the upcoming 2026 general elections. The Commission emphasized that the only key requirement for casting a vote is being registered in the National Voters Register. This announcement, made by Electoral Commission Chairperson Simon Byabakama, is set to alleviate concerns among many Ugandans who feared they might be disenfranchised due to missing identification documents.
Byabakama made these remarks during a press conference at the Commission’s headquarters in Kampala on Wednesday, January 31, 2025. He addressed a growing public concern about the necessity of a National ID or voter location slip to participate in the elections, assuring voters that it is not a requirement. “The foundation for one to vote is to be in the National Voters Register,” he said, stressing that these documents were meant to expedite the voting process, not to create barriers.
This clarification came after several Ugandans raised alarm over the potential exclusion from the voting process due to the absence of a voter location slip or a National ID. Many people in rural areas or those without proper documentation had expressed concerns that they would be unable to exercise their right to vote. Byabakama emphasized that voters should not worry if they do not possess these documents, as long as their names appear in the register.
According to Byabakama, the National ID and voter location slips were introduced to improve the efficiency of the voting process, making it quicker and easier for citizens to vote. However, these tools were never intended to block eligible voters from casting their ballots. “If you don’t have a National ID, come. If you don’t have a voter location slip, come. The issue is — are you in the register?” Byabakama reiterated, offering a reassuring message to the masses.
This message is likely to bring a sense of relief to the thousands of Ugandans who feared that they might be left out of the democratic process due to the challenges of obtaining a National ID or voter slip. The Commission’s new stance emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and ensures that no citizen is left behind in the upcoming elections.
While the Electoral Commission has clarified the issue of voter identification, it also took time to address another pressing matter: the growing number of candidate disqualifications. Byabakama explained that the Electoral Commission does not initiate petitions against candidates but rather acts on petitions submitted by voters or other candidates. Under the law, anyone has the right to scrutinize the qualifications of candidates and challenge any irregularities.
More than 400 petitions have already been received by the Commission challenging the nominations of various candidates. These petitions often relate to issues such as forged signatures or other irregularities in the nomination process. Byabakama defended the scrutiny of candidates, explaining that it is a reflection of citizen vigilance and an important part of the electoral process. “We are not going to close our eyes if we realize there was some illegality during nominations,” he said, indicating that the Commission is committed to ensuring a fair and transparent election.
The Electoral Commission’s commitment to transparency is particularly relevant as the country approaches the 2026 general elections. The increase in the number of petitions reflects the heightened awareness and involvement of the Ugandan public in the electoral process. Byabakama noted that it is the responsibility of every citizen and candidate to ensure that the election process is fair and lawful. This level of scrutiny, he explained, is a safeguard to prevent fraud and ensure that only qualified candidates appear on the ballot.
In addition to discussing the issue of candidate disqualification, Byabakama also addressed public concerns surrounding voter behavior at polling stations. During the 2021 general elections, there were several instances where polling stations were disrupted by hostile groups, which resulted in the destruction of electoral materials and the failure to tally votes in certain areas. This created a highly charged and unsafe environment for voters and election officials alike.
In response to these incidents, Byabakama clarified his earlier comments urging voters to leave polling stations after casting their ballots. He acknowledged that the law permits voters to remain within 20 meters of the polling stations but urged voters to be mindful of the reality on the ground. “We want a peaceful election. We are trying to create room for everyone to vote — some people, like the elderly, are put off by a charged and hostile environment,” he explained.
This call for peaceful elections highlights the Commission’s commitment to ensuring that all citizens can vote in a safe and secure environment. Byabakama’s statements indicate that the Electoral Commission is aware of the challenges that can arise on election day and is working to mitigate these risks. The goal is to create an atmosphere that encourages voter participation, where every eligible Ugandan can cast their vote without fear or intimidation.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, the Electoral Commission has urged all registered voters to confirm their details in the National Voters Register. Byabakama encouraged citizens to take the time to check their information and make any necessary corrections before election day. This will ensure that no one is turned away at the polls due to discrepancies in their registration information.
The Commission has also reassured voters that transparency, fairness, and inclusivity will remain central to the electoral process. These principles are vital for building public trust and ensuring that the election results reflect the will of the people. Byabakama emphasized that the Commission will continue to work hard to deliver free and fair elections, where every Ugandan has the opportunity to participate in choosing their leaders.
With the Electoral Commission’s assurances and preparations underway, the stage is set for the 2026 general elections to be more inclusive than ever before. The new clarification regarding voter identification requirements is a major step toward ensuring that every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote. This development is a victory for democracy in Uganda, and it is hoped that it will encourage greater voter participation across the country.
As we look ahead to the 2026 elections, it is clear that the Electoral Commission is focused on making the electoral process as accessible and transparent as possible. The steps taken to address concerns about voter ID and candidate disqualification show that the Commission is actively working to create a fair and secure environment for all voters.
Ugandans are urged to take this opportunity to confirm their voter registration details and ensure that they are ready to vote when the time comes. The 2026 elections will be a critical moment for the country, and the Electoral Commission’s efforts to make the process more inclusive and transparent are a step in the right direction for strengthening Uganda’s democracy.
This new approach by the Electoral Commission sets an important precedent for future elections in Uganda and may inspire other nations to adopt similar measures that prioritize voter accessibility. With the clarification on voter ID requirements and ongoing efforts to ensure fair elections, Uganda is taking significant strides toward achieving a more inclusive and representative democracy.
The people of Uganda now have a clearer understanding of what is required to vote, and this transparency will likely boost voter confidence and participation. In the lead-up to the 2026 elections, it is essential for citizens to remain engaged, informed, and ready to participate in shaping the future of their country. The 2026 general elections are not just about casting ballots; they are a reflection of the strength of Uganda’s democracy and the people’s commitment to their constitutional rights.
In addition to ensuring a smooth voting process, the Electoral Commission has also emphasized the importance of voter education. As the 2026 elections approach, efforts to educate voters on how the electoral system works, the importance of their vote, and how to use the Biometric Voter Verification Kit will play a crucial role in avoiding confusion at polling stations.
Byabakama highlighted that voter education campaigns will be intensified across the country to ensure that all voters, regardless of their location or educational background, understand the process and are prepared to participate fully. This proactive approach aims to empower Ugandans to make informed decisions and to contribute to a peaceful and orderly election day.
Moreover, the Commission is also working closely with civil society organizations and international partners to monitor the election process and ensure that it meets international standards of fairness. These partnerships will help strengthen the credibility of the elections and provide an additional layer of accountability.
By ensuring that there are multiple levels of scrutiny, both domestically and internationally, the Electoral Commission hopes to build public confidence in the election results. This collaborative effort signals Uganda’s commitment to holding transparent, credible, and inclusive elections that reflect the true will of the people.
