With Uganda approaching its general elections on Thursday, President Museveni has proclaimed a two-day public holiday.

This measure provides citizens with sufficient opportunity to take part in both the presidential and parliamentary voting processes.

Through a statutory instrument issued under the Public Holidays Act (Cap 174), the President invoked his authority under Section 2(2) of the legislation. He designated polling day (Thursday) and the subsequent day (Friday) as nationwide public holidays.

The primary goal of this declaration is to facilitate smooth voter movement and remove any work-related or official obligations that might hinder eligible citizens from exercising their franchise.

As the presidential candidate for the National Resistance Movement (NRM), President Museveni explained that the step seeks to foster extensive public involvement in the General Election. The polls will decide the leadership for the next president and Members of Parliament during the 2026–2031 period.

Eight individuals are vying for the presidency. They include the sitting President Mr Museveni, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (widely known as Bobi Wine) from the National Unity Platform (NUP), Nathan Nandala Mafabi representing the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), and Gen Mugisha Muntu as the flag bearer for the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT).

The remaining candidates are Elton Joseph Mabirizi of the Conservative Party (CP), Mubarak Munyagwa from the Common Man’s Party, Robert Kasibante of the National Peasants’ Party (NPP), and Frank Bulira of the Revolutionary People’s Party (RPP).

Many citizens have positively received the announcement, viewing it as a sign of commitment to active civic engagement and a peaceful voting environment.

Political analyst Prof Sabiti Makara noted that the holiday would help people fulfill their constitutional duty free from employment pressures.

“A large number of Ugandans are registered to vote in locations far from their workplaces or current residences. Granting two consecutive public holidays allows them enough time to journey, cast their votes, and return home without stress,” Prof Makara observed.

He pointed out that making election day a public holiday is a standard approach in numerous nations and is likely to increase participation rates, particularly among employees in government and private sectors.

The Electoral Commission (EC) has consistently called on all registered voters to show up in strength, while security forces have promised a safe atmosphere throughout the election period.

The EC reports that roughly 21.6 million voters are set to take part across the different electoral categories.