Ugandans will have a day away from work on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, after the government officially declared the date a public holiday to allow citizens across the country to take part in the Local Council elections. The announcement is aimed at ensuring that every eligible voter has enough time to participate in choosing their local leaders.
The declaration was communicated through a statement released on Friday, July 24, by the Executive Director of the Uganda Media Centre, Alan Kasujja. According to the statement, the government wants to remove any work-related barriers that could prevent people from exercising their constitutional right to vote.The statement urged all eligible Ugandans to use the public holiday responsibly by turning up at their respective polling stations to cast their ballots. Officials believe the move will encourage greater public participation in the electoral process and strengthen democracy at the grassroots level.
The Local Council elections are expected to take place across the country, with voters electing leaders who will serve at village and other lower local government levels. These leaders play an important role in addressing community concerns, promoting development initiatives, and maintaining order within their respective areas.By setting aside the day as a public holiday, the government hopes to increase voter turnout and ensure that citizens are not forced to choose between work obligations and participating in the elections. The decision reflects the importance attached to local governance in Uganda’s political system.
Local Council leaders are often the first point of contact for communities when handling disputes, coordinating development programmes, and linking residents with higher government authorities. Their election is therefore considered a key part of strengthening service delivery and community representation.The upcoming polls form part of Uganda’s broader electoral calendar, which outlines the selection of leaders at different levels of government. Electoral authorities have continued to encourage voters to verify their polling details and prepare to take part in the exercise peacefully.With the public holiday now confirmed, Ugandans are expected to make use of the opportunity to participate in shaping leadership within their communities. Authorities have also appealed for calm, discipline, and respect for the electoral process as the country heads into the Local Council elections.
