People Power Front declares boycott of 2026 general elections, demands electoral reforms

The People Power Front (PPF) has announced that it will not take part in Uganda’s 2026 General Elections, citing the absence of meaningful electoral reforms that would ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness.

The declaration was made in a statement issued by Spartan Mukagyi, Acting Secretary General of the PPF, following what he described as “extensive and thorough consultations” with members and stakeholders.

A stand against “Ritualized Elections”

According to Mukagyi, the current electoral environment amounts to “ritualized elections” that simply recycle the regime every five years without genuine democratic change.

“Participating in an election without substantive reforms would be a disservice to Ugandans and to our members,” he said. “It would only legitimize a process that lacks fairness and accountability.”

He further noted that the registration of the People Power Front itself was delayed far beyond statutory timelines, denying the party an opportunity to contribute to reform debates within the six months provided under the law.

Key demands for reform

The PPF has outlined several areas where reforms are urgently needed:

Timely access to the National Voters’ Register, which Mukagyi argued is often released too close to elections to allow meaningful verification. He cited past instances where the register contained names of deceased or non-existent persons, raising credibility concerns.
An independent Electoral Commission, whose commissioners should not be appointed solely by the President. “How do you expect fairness when commissioners are chosen by the very person contesting?” Mukagyi asked. Instead, he proposed a more inclusive process involving Parliament and civil society.

Beyond the 2026 Elections

While declaring non-participation, Mukagyi stressed that the decision should not be seen as a retreat. He emphasized that the People Power Front’s struggle goes beyond election cycles, focusing on transforming Uganda’s political culture, institutions, and governance structures.

“PPF’s participation must be impactful,” Mukagyi stated. “We are mobilizing across Uganda and the diaspora to build a strong political alternative that truly represents the hopes and aspirations of our people.”

The PPF also clarified that while the party will not officially field candidates in 2026, individual members are free to contest on their own merit using other political identities.

Call to Ugandans

The Acting Secretary General concluded with a rallying call for unity among Ugandans seeking change:

“We call upon all change-seeking Ugandans to join hands with us in this broader struggle for transformation, accountability, and genuine democratic renewal.”

The People Power Front promised to announce its next course of action in the coming days.