A total of 114 presidential aspirants have so far picked nomination forms since the start of the exercise on Monday, August 11, 2025, at the Electoral Commission headquarters in Kampala.
The aspirants include representatives from five political parties as well as several independents.
Among the political parties that picked forms today are the National Resistance Movement (NRM), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), and the Uganda Economic Party, which is in the process of rebranding to the “Common Man’s Party.”
NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong picked the nomination forms on behalf of the party’s flag bearer, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
He urged Ugandans to prepare for the upcoming NRM manifesto, which he said will cater to all citizens.
When asked whether the growing number of presidential aspirants was a concern, Todwong said it is unrealistic for everyone to think they can lead the country, but welcomed the interest as a sign of political freedom under President Museveni’s leadership.
Among those who picked forms is Mubaraka Munyagwa, representing the soon-to-be-renamed Common Man’s Party.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the Electoral Commission for requesting fresh signatures, arguing that the party had already submitted them during registration.
Munyagwa also declared controversial policy intentions, including plans to withdraw Uganda from the East African Community, abolish Swahili as a national language, and introduce French instead.
Electoral Commission spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi confirmed that the nomination process is progressing smoothly and urged all aspirants to return their completed forms early to allow sufficient time for verification.
By Olivia Nabaggala
13th Aug 2025
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