By Ronald Kabuubi/ Naome Namusoke/ KMA Updates
The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially received the newly constructed presidential nominations and tally grounds in Lweza-Lubowa from the National Housing and Construction Company Limited (NHCCL), marking a major milestone in Uganda’s preparations for the 2026 General Elections.
The handover ceremony, held today, was presided over by EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, Minister for Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, and National Housing Executive Director Eng. Kaijuka Kenneth.
Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala,National Housing and Construction Corporation Executive Director Eng. Kaijuka Kenneth and EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama and his Deputy Hajjat Aisha Lubega.Photo by Ronald Kabuubi/KMA Updates.
Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala,National Housing and Construction Corporation Executive Director Eng. Kaijuka Kenneth and EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama and his Deputy Hajjat Aisha Lubega.Photo by Ronald Kabuubi/KMA Updates.
The EC headquarters were relocated in 2023 from Jinja Road to 6th Street, Industrial Area, to pave way for government’s construction of Lot 2 of the Kampala Flyover Project under the Ministry of Works and Transport. However, the temporary site faced recurrent flooding and accessibility challenges, prompting government to secure a 10-acre piece of land in Lubowa through National Housing. The new grounds were developed to provide a permanent and secure space for key electoral activities, particularly during presidential nominations and vote tallying.
The Lweza-Lubowa site covers 10 acres, including 3.5 acres of paved grounds designated for nomination and tallying operations. According to Eng. Kaijuka, the handover represents the first phase of development at the site. He added that National Housing will reclaim the remaining land and continue further works to ensure the facility is ready for long-term use by the Commission.
Works and Transport Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala,National Housing and Construction Corporation Executive Director Eng. Kaijuka Kenneth .Photo by Ronald Kabuubi/KMA Updates.
EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama.Photo by Ronald Kabuubi/KMA Updates.
Police Spokesperson Person Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rusoke talking to the Media about Security matters.Photo by Ronald Kabuubi/KMA Updates.
“This handover demonstrates government’s commitment to building lasting infrastructure to support credible elections. We shall continue working with the EC to deliver facilities that meet international standards,” Eng. Kaijuka said.
Speaking at the event, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama announced adjustments to the electoral calendar. Campaigns, which were originally scheduled to begin on October 4, 2025, will now commence on September 29, 2025. Meanwhile, the nomination period for Members of Parliament has been revised to October 22–23, 2025.
Justice Byabakama said the changes were necessary to align with the Commission’s operational timelines and to ensure a smooth electoral process.
Works and Transport Minister, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, commended the milestone and pledged government’s support in improving traffic flow and infrastructure around the new facility.
“This development will not only serve the Commission but also ease planning for security, transport, and logistics during critical electoral activities,” Gen. Katumba noted.
The establishment of the Lweza-Lubowa nomination and tallying grounds is expected to enhance transparency and efficiency in Uganda’s elections. EC officials say the new facility will reduce logistical challenges, provide a secure environment for stakeholders, and reaffirm government’s commitment to strengthening democratic processes.
With the handover complete, the Electoral Commission now moves into the next phase of preparations ahead of the highly anticipated 2026 General Elections