
KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Uganda Electoral Commission (EC) has officially released the harmonised campaign programme for the 2025/2026 presidential elections, setting the stage for a tightly regulated race and revealing the contrasting strategic opening moves of the leading candidates.
The schedule, confirmed after a meeting between the EC and representatives of all eight nominated presidential candidates, is designed to prevent clashes in venues and dates. According to the programme, the campaign season will formally commence on September 29, 2025.
The two most prominent contenders, incumbent President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Tibuhaburwa and his main challenger, National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), will launch their bids in strategically significant regions.
President Museveni will begin his campaign in Munyonyo, Wakiso District, a suburb on the outskirts of the capital, Kampala. In contrast, Bobi Wine will kick off his campaign in the eastern city of Jinja.
The first week of campaigns highlights the candidates’ distinct geographic focuses. President Museveni’s itinerary is extensive and wide-ranging, covering 12 locations across the Central and Northern regions:
· Central: Munyonyo (Wakiso), Luweero
· Northern: Amolatar, Dokolo, Alebtong, Otuke, Apac, Kwania, Kole, Lira, and Lira City.
· Western: Bunyangabu, Kasese.
Meanwhile, Bobi Wine’s initial foray will concentrate on districts in the Eastern and Western regions:
· Eastern: Jinja, Buyende, Kaliro, Bugweri, Mayuge, Namayingo.
· Western: Bushenyi, Rubirizi.
The release of the harmonised programme follows a period of heightened political tension, including recent allegations of police intimidation against opposition activities. The EC’s move is aimed at ensuring a orderly process by securing agreement from all candidates to avoid scheduling conflicts.
This official timetable now sets the clock ticking for what is expected to be a fiercely contested election, with both main camps embarking on gruelling nationwide tours to rally support.