Uganda Declares July 28th Public Holiday for Local Council Elections

Ugandans will have the opportunity to cast their votes for Local Council leaders on Tuesday, July 28th, 2026, as the government has officially declared this day a public holiday. The announcement, made by the Uganda Media Centre on July 24th, 2026, aims to ensure maximum voter turnout across the country.

The special holiday is intended to allow citizens to participate freely in electing representatives at village, parish, and sub-county levels. These local councils are considered crucial as they represent the closest link between the government and the populace.

With the elections just days away, electoral officials and stakeholders have been actively encouraging widespread participation, emphasizing the importance of grassroots democracy. The public holiday means that most government offices, schools, and businesses will suspend operations for the day.

However, essential services, including healthcare facilities and security operations, are expected to continue functioning to maintain public order and well-being. The Electoral Commission has finalized candidate nominations and voter registration processes for these elections, which are the first of their kind in several years at this level.

Authorities are urging all eligible voters to exercise their democratic right and vote peacefully on the designated day. Further information regarding the electoral process will be disseminated through official government communication channels. This measure underscores the government’s commitment to fostering civic engagement and ensuring the success of the local governance elections.

Source: Nile Post