KAMPALA, Uganda — The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has confirmed that 17 Members of Parliament (MPs) have been elected unopposed ahead of the 2026 general elections, a development that effectively guarantees the party a significant parliamentary presence even before polling takes place.
In these constituencies, candidates secured their seats automatically after no challengers filed nominations to contest the positions, according to party officials and electoral data. The unopposed victories span diverse regions, underscoring the NRM’s organisational reach.
The party’s electoral director said the outcomes reflect confidence in the NRM’s leadership and policies, noting that the process adhered to the Electoral Commission’s (EC) nomination rules.
Election authorities have confirmed that nominations closed on the statutory deadline, with all required documentation submitted by qualifying candidates.
Political analysts say the unopposed victories provide the ruling party with a strategic advantage, consolidating its influence in parliamentary decision-making and shaping the broader electoral landscape as campaigns continue in other constituencies.
“Unopposed seats give the NRM a head start and reduce the uncertainty for its legislative agenda post-elections,” said a senior political analyst based in Kampala.
Context and criticism
Unopposed victories are not uncommon in Uganda’s electoral environment, but they have drawn criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups, who argue that they may reflect systemic barriers to political competition rather than genuine consensus.
Opposition leaders contend that logistical challenges, harassment and resource disparities undermine fair contestation in some regions.
In a statement, one opposition figure noted that “free and fair elections require robust competition”, urging the EC and security agencies to ensure that all eligible candidates can participate without fear or obstruction.
Electoral preparations continue
The Electoral Commission (EC) continues preparations for polling in constituencies where elections remain contested, with officials urging voters, candidates and party agents to adhere to electoral guidelines to ensure a free, fair and credible vote.
The EC has also deployed additional observers and technical teams to manage result transmission, logistics and dispute resolution ahead of polling day.
As part of broader electoral readiness, the EC has embarked on voter education campaigns to enhance turnout and inform citizens about voting procedures, particularly in newly created districts and urban constituencies.
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Civil society groups have also intensified awareness efforts, focusing on women, youth and marginalised communities.
With the unopposed victories secured, the NRM heads into the general election with a fortified parliamentary base.
Polling in contested seats is scheduled to proceed as planned, with results expected within 48 hours of voting.
Observers and political commentators say the overall level of competition and voter engagement across all constituencies will be a key measure of the election’s credibility.
Opposition parties have reiterated calls for transparency in vote counting and result announcements, stressing that public confidence hinges on the fairness of both the campaign period and the tallying process.
