Robert Kasibante, a first-time presidential candidate representing the National Peasants’ Party, has been duly nominated to contest in Uganda’s 2026 general elections.
The Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson, Justice Simon Byabakama, officially confirmed Kasibante’s nomination and handed him a security vehicle along with six security personnel to ensure his protection during the campaign period.
Meanwhile, another presidential aspirant, Elton Joseph Mabirizi, faced a setback in his bid for nomination after presenting incomplete documentation.
Mabirizi arrived at the EC headquarters in Lweza, Lubowa, at 12:36 PM but was advised to rectify several issues in his submission before being cleared.
Justice Byabakama noted that the verification certificate for Mabirizi’s academic documents, originally used during the 2016 general elections had expired and had not been renewed.
Additionally, Mabirizi had included a Master’s degree in his academic qualifications that had not been verified by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE), which is a legal requirement.
The EC Chairperson advised Mabirizi to correct the errors and return either later that day before 4:00 PM or the following day in order to complete the nomination process.
Mabirizi acknowledged the oversight, stating that he had indeed submitted unverified Master’s level academic papers.
He claimed the EC may not have properly considered his intention, but confirmed that he would comply with the Commission’s directive and proceed to the NCHE for the necessary verification.
According to Uganda’s electoral laws, a presidential candidate must hold a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or its equivalent as part of the minimum academic requirements.
By Olivia Nabaggala
23rd Sept 2025
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