Uganda’s 2026 Elections Stand on a Crucial Threshold
As Uganda gears up for the 2026 General Election, voices from religious, civil society, and political circles are underscoring a single, essential demand: equal political space for all contenders. In Masaka, Bishop Serverus Jjumba of the Masaka Catholic Diocese has mounted a principled appeal to government authorities and electoral stakeholders to guarantee fair treatment of every candidate and to curb any perception of bias that could tilt the electoral playing field.
Why Equal Political Space Matters
The call for equal political space goes beyond rhetoric. It addresses the core principles of democracy: fairness, transparency, and the voters’ right to hear diverse viewpoints. When some contenders receive easier access to media platforms, public venues, or procurement processes, public trust erodes, and the legitimacy of the election can be questioned. The Bishop’s message resonates with a broad segment of Ugandans who want a level field where ideas can compete on merit rather than connections or favoritism.
Governance, Media, and Electoral Access
Advocates for fair space argue that government, courts, and regulatory bodies must enforce clear, consistently applied rules. This includes equitable media coverage, fair chances to campaign in rural and urban communities, and impartial enforcement of campaign finance laws. The Bishop’s warning about “selective enforcement” reflects longstanding concerns that uneven application of rules can disproportionately silence smaller parties or independent candidates, effectively narrowing the democratic arena.
Implications for Uganda’s 2026 Campaigns
For political actors, the call to level the playing field implies practical steps. Political parties and independent candidates should have comparable access to electoral forums, public funding where applicable, and the ability to mobilize voters without facing administrative barriers. For voters, equal space means a more informative election where each candidate’s policies and track record are scrutinized fairly. This, in turn, supports informed decision-making at the ballot box.
Responsibilities of Stakeholders
Key stakeholders, including the Electoral Commission, law enforcement, media houses, and civil society organizations, carry a shared responsibility. The Electoral Commission must uphold neutrality in candidate registrations, debates, and polling logistics. Media outlets should avoid biased coverage and present diverse voices. Civil society groups can monitor compliance and report irregularities, contributing to a credible electoral process that reflects the will of the people rather than the preferences of a few powerful actors.
What This Means for Citizens
For ordinary Ugandans, the push for equal political space is about credibility and confidence. It signals that every vote carries weight and that public institutions are committed to a fair process. It also invites citizen engagement—encouraging voters to demand accountability, participate in elections, and support peaceful, lawful political discourse. The Bishop’s appeal invites a broader conversation about how democracy can be strengthened from the ground up, ensuring that 2026 becomes a turning point toward more inclusive political participation.
Looking Ahead
As campaigns accelerate in the coming months, the emphasis on equal political space will likely shape policy debates, media coverage, and community organizing across Uganda. While the bishops’ call is rooted in moral leadership, its practical implications are inherently political, touching on the rights of candidates to compete and the public’s right to be well informed. If authorities respond with concrete measures to promote fairness, the 2026 polls could reinforce Uganda’s democratic gains and set a constructive precedent for future elections.
