Justice Byabakama Hails Government Commitment as Electoral Commission Receives Lubowa Premises for 2026 Presidential Nominations
“The choice of this venue in Lubowa is not only geared at hosting the nomination process but, ultimately and most significantly, this is the proposed home for the Electoral Commission,” Justice Byabakama said.
The Electoral Commission (EC) on Friday formally received its new premises in Lweza-Lubowa, Makindye Ssabagabo, from the National Housing and Construction Company Limited (NHCC), marking a significant milestone ahead of the 2026 General Elections. The facility will serve as the venue for the nomination of presidential aspirants scheduled for 23rd and 24th September 2025.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, Chairperson of the Electoral Commission, described the development as a turning point in Uganda’s democratic process, noting that the site will not only host nominations but also serve as the Commission’s permanent headquarters.
“The choice of this venue in Lubowa is not only geared at hosting the nomination process but, ultimately and most significantly, this is the proposed home for the Electoral Commission,” Justice Byabakama said.
Government Commitment to Democracy
Byabakama thanked the Government of Uganda for fully funding the construction of the EC’s new home, describing it as a strong sign of commitment to nurturing democracy.
“To us, this is a confirmation of the commitment of government in ensuring that the democratic process of the country is nurtured and groomed for the benefit of governance of our country,” he emphasized.
The EC Chairperson also commended Gen. Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, who was chief guest at the function, for his proactive role in supporting the project. He recalled a crucial meeting held in the Minister’s office to resolve outstanding issues that ensured timely readiness of the venue.
A State-of-the-Art Democratic Institution
Byabakama noted that housing the EC in a modern, purpose-built facility reflects the country’s desire to safeguard free and fair elections.
“The construction of the Electoral Commission home is an indication of the desire to nurture our democracy to ensure that the institution tasked with making it possible for the people of Uganda to express their will is housed in a perfect, state-of-the-art home,” he said.
He added that the new headquarters symbolize government’s determination to ensure the people’s voices are heard, respected, and implemented through credible electoral processes.
Electoral Roadmap Adjustments
Justice Byabakama also used the occasion to announce adjustments to the 2026 Electoral Roadmap. Presidential campaigns will now kick off on 29th September 2025, earlier than the previously scheduled 4th October 2025.
“We realized that after nominations on 23rd and 24th, presidential aspirants are raring to hit the campaign trail early while still in high spirits,” he explained.
In addition, the nomination of Members of Parliament has been rescheduled from 15th–16th October 2025 to 22nd–23rd October 2025. This follows a request from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which highlighted Uganda’s role as host of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Conference on the earlier dates, an event that will involve cabinet ministers and MPs.
Commendation to NHCC and NOC
Byabakama applauded the NHCC Board, CEO, and staff for delivering the project successfully despite initial doubts.
“Let me commend the Board Chairman, CEO, and members of staff of NHCC for indeed proving the detractors wrong. You could do it, and you have done it,” he remarked.
He also reminded the National Organizing Committee (NOC), which is overseeing the nomination site, to ensure all systems are in place for a smooth and glitch-free process.
Traffic Management Assurances
Chief Guest Gen. Katumba Wamala lauded NHCC for its work and appealed to the Uganda Police Force’s Traffic Department to ensure smooth traffic flow along Entebbe Road during the nomination days.
The new EC headquarters are located at Lweza-Lubowa, off Entebbe Road, after Fuelex Fuel Station and opposite Lweza Church of Uganda Conference Center.
With the official handover, the Commission is now set to host presidential aspirants at its new home, a development Justice Byabakama described as both a logistical milestone and a testament to Uganda’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions.
