KAMPALA, 16 OCTOBER 2025 – The Electoral Commission (EC) has called on journalists to play a more active and responsible role in ensuring peaceful, credible, and transparent elections ahead of the 2026 polls.
The call was made during a regional workshop for journalists held in Kampala, where media professionals received guidance on accurate election reporting, safety, and ethical standards. The workshop is part of a nationwide series organized by the EC to strengthen collaboration with the media in promoting peace and integrity throughout the electoral process.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Mucunguzi Julius, the Electoral Commission spokesperson, said journalists are central to building public trust in elections.
“We cannot have a true, fair, and peaceful election without journalists doing their work,” Mr. Mucunguzi said. “The Electoral Commission appreciates the great role of the media, and that is why we have organized this training to help journalists understand the new reporting guidelines for the 2026 elections.”
He explained that the workshops would be extended to other regions so that journalists across Uganda can be equipped with the same knowledge and reminded of their duty to the nation. “We want Ugandans to believe in the results, and that can only happen when journalists report accurately and professionally,” he added.
The EC spokesperson also raised concern about the safety of journalists during election coverage. He appealed to voters and political actors to maintain peace and show respect for media professionals. “The security of journalists doing their work is a big issue,” he said. “We urge all Ugandans to keep peace, follow election rules, and avoid anything that could cause chaos.”
Mr. Mucunguzi encouraged reporters to see election coverage as an opportunity for professional growth. “Reporting on elections can make you a great journalist and the kind of person every newsroom looks for,” he said.
He also cautioned journalists against spreading false news or being influenced by politicians. “In November, we will open campaigns for Members of Parliament and local government leaders. We ask you to go back and do your work as trained,” he said. “Avoid sharing false information or accepting bribes from politicians who want to mislead the public. Let us shine our eyes because we are the eyes of the country.”
During the same workshop, Ms. Kyobutungi Jennipher, the Kampala Regional Electoral Officer, shared updates on the upcoming nomination process. She said that nominations will take place on October 22 and 23, 2025, across all districts in the country.
“The returning officers in each district will be responsible for screening the candidates,” Ms. Kyobutungi said. “In Kampala, nominations for those aspiring to become Members of Parliament will be held at our regional office in Ntinda, Ministers Village, near Kyambogo Road.”
She clarified that being nominated does not automatically permit candidates to begin campaigns. “After nominations, candidates will wait until November 10, 2025, when the official campaign period begins. It will run until January 12, 2026,” she explained.
Ms. Kyobutungi emphasized that professionalism and transparency from both journalists and candidates are vital for maintaining public confidence. “We want to see journalists report accurately and with integrity, because credible reporting strengthens democracy,” she said.
The Electoral Commission reiterated its commitment to work closely with the media as a key partner in delivering peaceful and trusted elections. Through continued training and dialogue, the EC hopes to ensure that journalists across Uganda are well-prepared to report the 2026 elections responsibly, fairly, and safely.
