The US government has issued security alerts to its nationals ahead of Uganda’s elections. Next week, Uganda heads to the polls scheduled for January 15, 2026.
The Constitution of Uganda spells out that every five years, the President and Members of Parliament shall renew their mandate, having been elected on the basis of universal adult suffrage and by secret ballot.
On September 23 and 24, 2025, the Electoral Commission nominated eight presidential candidates, while on October 22 and 23, 2025, it nominated candidates seeking to represent 353 directly elected Members of Parliament, 146 District Woman Representatives, and five representatives each for Older Persons, Persons with Disabilities, Workers, and Youths.
The eight include Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine (National Unity Platform – NUP); Yoweri Kaguta Museveni (National Resistance Movement – NRM); Elton Joseph Mabirizi (Conservative Party – CP); and Robert Kasibante (National Peasants Party – NPP).
Others are Nathan Nandala Mafabi (Forum for Democratic Change – FDC); Mugisha Muntu (Alliance for National Transformation – ANT); Munyagwa Mubarak Sserunga (Common Man’s Party – CMP); and Bulira Frank Kabinga (Revolutionary People’s Party – RPP).
The campaign, especially the presidential race, has turned into one of Uganda’s most tightly controlled election cycles in recent memory.
According to the communication to its nationals, demonstrations and large gatherings could occur before, during, or after the elections.
“Over the past month, Ugandan security entities have used force to control crowds at political gatherings in Kampala and throughout the country,” the US Embassy said.
It stated that past elections have also seen outbreaks of violence. US citizens were advised to avoid large gatherings, heed the advice of local authorities, and refrain from engaging in political events.
“Past elections have seen internet, mobile network, and social media disruptions. Some businesses, including restaurants and grocery stores, may be closed on January 15,” the US indicated.
They urged nationals to avoid crowds and demonstrations, remain aware of their surroundings, and establish a communication plan with family members or employers in case of an internet outage.
“Ensure you have cash. ATMs, credit card machines, and mobile money apps may not function in the event of an internet outage. Prepare five to seven days of food, water, and medicine in case you need to shelter in place,” the US said.
The advisory further urged people to avoid wearing clothing in colors associated with Ugandan political parties, including red, yellow, purple, and blue.
