Uganda Gears Up for Long-Awaited LC1 Elections on July 28

Preparations are in full swing across Uganda for the eagerly anticipated Local Council (LC1) elections, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The Electoral Commission (EC) is currently undertaking the crucial tasks of verifying residents and compiling village registers in anticipation of the polls, which will see citizens elect LC1 chairpersons in all 71,214 villages nationwide. This marks the first widespread grassroots election in many years, and political parties are actively mobilizing their supporters.

Incumbent leaders are gearing up to defend their positions, with some serving for decades, while new challengers are emerging to contest for village leadership. In Kabale District, the ruling NRM party is intensifying its mobilization efforts, aiming to secure victories at the LC1 and LC2 levels to strengthen the party’s grassroots presence and facilitate the implementation of government programs. The National Unity Platform (NUP) in the same district has called for the timely display of village registers to allow for public verification and prevent electoral irregularities.

Across the country, from Mbarara City to Mbale City, aspiring candidates and residents express readiness for the elections. Concerns have been raised about the commercialization of politics and the potential for intimidation. Some residents have also voiced opinions on the voting method, with a preference for secret ballots over the traditional lining-up system, citing privacy concerns.

Despite some subdued excitement in certain areas, like Fort Portal City, where awareness of the electoral roadmap is reportedly low, political parties are trying to navigate challenges such as short notice for nominations and the unfortunate passing of some pre-selected candidates. The EC has assured that preparations are on course, including the training of polling officials and the distribution of election materials. Residents are urged to participate in the verification process to ensure eligible voters are registered.

The elections are expected to spark significant local competition and provide an opportunity for citizens to choose leaders who they believe can best address community challenges, improve service delivery, and promote development at the village level. The EC’s roadmap indicates a comprehensive process to ensure the elections are conducted effectively.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)