The Uganda Police Force has issued detailed security guidelines ahead of the nomination of parliamentary candidates scheduled for October 22 and 23, 2025, across the country.
The guidelines aim to ensure peaceful, orderly, and transparent nomination exercises as the nation prepares for the 2026 General Elections.
According to a press release dated October 21, 2025, the police emphasised the need for political actors, candidates, and the general public to adhere to the established laws and cooperate with security agencies to guarantee safety and smooth proceedings during the two-day nomination period.
The statement noted that only invited persons and candidates will be granted access to nomination centres to control crowds and prevent disorder.
“Access to nomination centres is restricted to invited persons and candidates to control the number of attendees,” the statement reads in part.
The police further stated that traffic routes leading to and from the nomination venues will be strictly regulated to ensure a smooth flow of vehicles and to prevent congestion.
Motorists have been urged to comply with traffic officers’ directives, particularly in areas hosting major political events.
In line with the Electoral Commission regulations, the Uganda Police will regulate convoys of candidates to minimise security risks and maintain order.
Each candidate’s convoy will be limited to two vehicles, each carrying no more than ten occupants. “Candidates are not allowed to hold processions,” the police warned, stressing that any violation will attract enforcement action.
Security agencies also reaffirmed their commitment to fully enforce laws governing elections, public order, and traffic management during the nomination period. The public has been cautioned against acts that may breach peace or violate the rights of others.
“Citizens’ rights and peace should not be disrupted by nomination activities or related activities,” the statement added.
The police urged candidates planning post-nomination celebrations or rallies to coordinate with local security commanders before organising such events. Specifically, candidates are required to consult District and Regional Police Commanders (DPCs and RPCs) to identify suitable venues for gatherings.
This measure is designed to prevent spontaneous crowds and potential clashes between rival supporters.
Furthermore, the statement discouraged candidates from holding rallies in sensitive areas such as markets, near schools, or hospitals. Such activities, the police said, could disrupt normal business operations and public services. The advisory also applies to processions or celebrations likely to obstruct traffic or endanger public safety.
“The laws governing elections, public order and traffic remain fully enforced during this period,” the statement reiterated, highlighting zero tolerance for unlawful acts, including violence, intimidation, or hate speech during the nomination process.
In addition, the Uganda Police reminded the public that the nomination exercise is a democratic process meant to promote participation and peace, not confrontation. All Ugandans were urged to respect differing political opinions and work together to maintain national stability.
“As security agencies, we call upon all political actors and the public to promote peace and harmony throughout the nomination period,” the statement concluded.
The Uganda Police Force reassured citizens of their readiness to provide adequate security at all designated centres across the country. Joint security operations have already been deployed in coordination with the Electoral Commission and other relevant agencies to monitor compliance and respond swiftly to any incidents that may arise.
The parliamentary nominations are among the key milestones leading up to Uganda’s 2026 general elections, with the Electoral Commission setting January 15, 2026, as polling day.
The nomination period will pave the way for an official campaign season expected to begin shortly afterwards.
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