The Electoral Commission (EC) has reported a record surge in interest for the country’s highest political office, with more than 114 individuals having picked nomination forms for the presidency as of 3:00 pm Monday.
According to EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi, the aspirants so far represent five registered political parties: the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), National Economic Empowerment Dialogue (NEED), the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), the Conservative Party (CP), and the Common Man’s Party.
The remainder of the aspirants are expected to be independents, who often form the largest share of presidential hopefuls during the early stages of the process.
“The picking of nomination forms is an initial but important step in the electoral journey,” Mucunguzi said. “It allows aspirants to formally express their intention to contest, and it gives the Commission an opportunity to guide them on the requirements and timelines.”
Picking the forms, however, is only the first hurdle. Each presidential aspirant will be required to meet a stringent set of legal and administrative conditions before their candidacy can be confirmed.
This includes gathering signatures from registered voters across at least two-thirds of the country’s districts, paying a nomination fee set by the EC, and complying with campaign financing and disclosure rules.
Political observers note that the number of aspirants who pick forms is traditionally much higher than those who eventually appear on the final ballot.
In the last general election, more than 80 individuals expressed interest in running for president, but only 11 successfully met the requirements and were nominated. This year’s early numbers suggest an even more competitive preliminary race.
The announcement comes amid heightened political activity across the country.
Major political parties are already holding strategy meetings and regional consultations, while smaller parties and independents are rallying supporters on social media.
The Electoral Commission has warned against premature campaigns, urging aspirants to adhere strictly to the electoral timetable.
Mucunguzi emphasized that the EC is committed to ensuring a transparent and credible process.
“Our role is to provide a level playing field for all aspirants, regardless of their political affiliation,” he said, adding that security and logistical preparations are already underway for the nomination exercise.
The nomination window will remain open for a set period, after which the EC will vet all submissions before releasing the official list of candidates.
