By The Electoral Commission (EC) has issued a strong reminder to all individuals intending to contest in the 2025/2026 General Elections to verify their academic qualifications in accordance with the law.
In a statement dated July 16, 2025, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi emphasized that all aspirants for positions including President, Member of Parliament, District/City Chairpersons, and Lord Mayors must possess at least an Advanced Level (A-Level) certificate or its equivalent.
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The Commission clarified that candidates who obtained their qualifications outside Uganda must have them verified by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) in consultation with the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB). Such aspirants must also obtain a certificate of equivalency from NCHE.
For those who did not study A-Level in or outside Uganda but claim equivalent qualifications, a certificate of equivalency issued by NCHE is mandatory. The Commission warned that certificates used in previous elections will not be accepted for the 2025/2026 polls, and all candidates must present fresh verification documents at least two months before nomination.
However, aspirants with A-Level certificates or higher qualifications obtained within Uganda, as well as those holding degrees or qualifications from the former University of East Africa, are exempt from this verification process.
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Justice Byabakama stressed the need for early compliance to avoid last-minute disqualification:
“A certificate of equivalency for previous elections is not relevant. One is required to obtain a fresh certificate unless a higher qualification has since been acquired,” he said.
The EC has urged all aspiring candidates to begin the verification process immediately to ensure smooth nominations and avoid unnecessary delays.
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