Uganda’s Electoral Commission has confirmed that the winner of the 2026 presidential race will be officially announced within 48 hours after polling ends.
Speaking to journalists on Monday morning, EC Chairperson Simon Byabakama revealed that vote tallying will begin at district tally centres before being transmitted to the National Tally Centre in Lubowa, Wakiso District.
From there, results from all districts and cities will be consolidated and the final presidential outcome declared — not later than two days after the close of polls.
“Results will be announced first at district level, then transmitted to the national tally centre, where we shall compile and declare the final presidential results within 48 hours,” Byabakama stated.
Ugandans will head to the ballot on Thursday, January 15, 2026, to elect the President and Members of Parliament.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has already declared January 15 and 16 as public holidays to allow citizens full participation in the historic exercise.
The presidential contest is shaping up as one of the most intense in the country’s history, with the main battle between incumbent Museveni (NRM) and opposition heavyweight Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine (NUP).