Ugandan Presidential Hopefuls Challenge Electoral Commission’s Signature Verification Process

KAMPALA – Several presidential aspirants in Uganda have raised serious concerns about the Electoral Commission’s signature verification process, alleging inconsistencies and lack of transparency that could potentially disqualify candidates from the 2026 elections.

The controversy centers on the EC’s requirement that presidential candidates submit signatures of support from at least 100 registered voters in each of two-thirds of Uganda’s districts – a significant hurdle that has previously eliminated several aspirants from presidential races.

“There are worrying inconsistencies in how the Electoral Commission is verifying our signatures,” said one aspiring candidate who preferred anonymity, in an interview with Daily Monitor. “The process lacks transparency and we fear it might be used to lock out genuine candidates.”

Signature Requirements and Historical Context

Uganda’s presidential election requirements are among the most stringent in the region. According to Article 103 of the Ugandan Constitution and the Presidential Elections Act, aspirants must provide supporting signatures from 100 registered voters in each of 98 districts (two-thirds of Uganda’s 146 districts).

This requirement has proven challenging even for established politicians. In the 2021 elections, several prominent figures including former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi struggled to meet the threshold. The electoral framework has frequently been criticized by international observers, including the Human Rights Watch and the International Republican Institute, who argue the requirements disproportionately affect opposition candidates.

Specific Complaints and EC Response

Aspirants have reported multiple issues with the verification process, including:

• Alleged arbitrary disqualification of valid signatures without clear explanation
• Inconsistent application of verification standards across different districts
• Lack of access to verification data to allow candidates to address discrepancies
• Reports of signatures being rejected based on minor technicalities

The Electoral Commission, chaired by Justice Simon Byabakama, has maintained that the process is transparent and follows established guidelines. In a recent press briefing, EC spokesman Paul Bukenya stated, “We are following the law and our procedures are clear and consistent for all candidates.”

However, this contradicts reports from multiple aspirants. For broader context on Uganda’s electoral challenges, see BBC’s reporting on Uganda’s elections.

Broader Political Context

The signature verification controversy occurs within a broader context of political tension in Uganda. President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, is widely expected to seek re-election in 2026, though he has not made an official announcement.

The opposition, fragmented and operating under significant constraints, views the signature requirement as one of several structural barriers that make challenging the incumbent difficult. Other challenges include restrictions on campaign activities, limited media access, and allegations of voter intimidation.

This latest dispute over signature verification recalls similar controversies in previous election cycles. In 2020, the Supreme Court upheld the requirement while acknowledging its stringent nature, as reported by JURIST.

Next Steps and Potential Challenges

Aspirants who fail to meet the signature requirement face disqualification from the presidential race. Those dissatisfied with the EC’s verification process may appeal to the High Court, though such appeals rarely succeed.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in Uganda’s electoral system between regulatory requirements and political participation. As the 2026 elections approach, international observers and civil society groups are closely monitoring whether the process will meet regional and international standards for free and fair elections.

For continuing coverage of Uganda’s electoral preparations, follow Africanews’ Uganda elections coverage.