As Uganda gears up for the 2026 general elections, the country’s Electoral Commission (EC) chairperson, Justice Simon Mugenyi Byabakama, has cautioned political candidates against using money and gifts to influence voters, warning that such actions undermine democracy and violate the law.
Speaking at a press conference in Kampala last week, Justice Byabakama described the growing culture of vote buying as “a criminal act” that threatens the integrity of Uganda’s electoral process.
“It is a criminal offence to use money to influence voters,” he said. “Offering items such as hoes or other goods in exchange for support is not something the Commission condones. Elections in Uganda must remain free and fair.”
Under the Parliamentary Elections Act of 2005, buying or selling votes is punishable by up to three years in prison or a fine. However, despite repeated warnings, the practice remains widespread across the country.
Analysts argue that voter bribery has far-reaching consequences beyond elections. It fosters corruption, weakens governance, and erodes public trust in democratic institutions. They warn that when politicians can buy loyalty, they have little incentive to deliver services or uphold accountability once elected.
During campaign seasons, it is common for candidates to distribute cash, sugar, soap, or farming tools—tokens intended to sway voters. Reports suggest that these handouts often target specific communities perceived to be most responsive to such incentives.
The EC’s 2011 report to Parliament highlighted bribery and the commercialization of politics as persistent challenges to Uganda’s democracy. Election observers have also cautioned that such behaviour turns voting into a transactional act, where ballots become commodities rather than expressions of civic duty.
Justice Byabakama’s remarks come amid increasing reports of candidates spending large sums of money to secure political positions. In a recent interview, an aspiring politician admitted that “without giving something, people won’t even listen.”
Last week, Ismael Ssegawa, a parliamentary hopeful for Mubende Municipality under the National Unity Platform (NUP), revealed he had spent more than Shs 80 million before even securing a party ticket—only to lose the nomination. Similarly, State Minister for Investment Evelyn Anite has previously acknowledged spending over Shs 100 million in just two days of campaigning in her Koboko constituency.
Byabakama condemned these practices, warning that they undermine the relationship between leaders and citizens. “This culture of vote buying not only breaks the law but corrupts the bond between leaders and the people,” he said. He urged candidates to avoid community fundraising during campaigns and to handle all campaign funds transparently through formal banking systems.
Election Calendar Announced
The EC chairperson also confirmed that Uganda’s Presidential and Parliamentary elections will take place on Thursday, 15 January 2026, in line with Article 61(2) of the Constitution. All campaign activities must end 48 hours before polling day.
Byabakama appealed for peaceful and law-abiding campaigns, reminding Ugandans that “there is life after elections.” He commended the calm atmosphere seen in the early stages of presidential campaigns and encouraged local and parliamentary candidates to maintain the same tone.
However, observers note that the pervasive influence of money in Ugandan politics continues to pose a major challenge. With poverty and patronage shaping much of the political landscape, cash handouts often sway voter choices in close contests.
Experts argue that without stricter enforcement of campaign finance regulations, the dream of a corruption-free election will remain distant.
For many citizens, the 2026 elections represent more than a political contest—they are a test of whether Uganda can conduct a credible, transparent, and fair vote.
As Justice Byabakama concluded, “Democracy only thrives when the people’s will is not bought. Every vote must be earned, not paid for.”
