The Ministry of Local Government has warned public servants that they are not eligible to contest in the ongoing Local Council I and II elections unless they have lawfully resigned from public office.
The warning follows reports that some teachers, health workers, administrative staff, extension workers and other public servants are seeking to contest or are participating in the ongoing Administrative Unit Elections while still holding public offices.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi, reminded public officers that they are required to remain politically neutral while in service and are prohibited from engaging in partisan political activities.
The Ministry noted that contesting for political office under Uganda’s multiparty political system involves articulating a political agenda or belonging to a political party, which amounts to participation in partisan political activity.
It further explained that Local Governments are established as units of Government under Article 176 of the Constitution, making persons serving in Local Governments public officers subject to the Constitution, Public Service Standing Orders and other relevant laws.
The Ministry cited Section 129(5) of the Local Governments Act, which requires a public officer seeking to contest for a Local Council position to resign from office at least 30 days before nomination day, following the applicable procedures of their service or employment.
The requirement, the Ministry said, is intended to protect the political neutrality, impartiality and professionalism of the Public Service.
The Ministry urged all public officers to uphold the integrity of the Public Service, noting that they play a vital role in delivering essential services to Ugandans and must remain non-partisan while in office.
It also said it would work with the Electoral Commission, Ministry of Public Service, Public Service Commission, District Service Commissions, Chief Administrative Officers and other relevant authorities to ensure compliance with the law.
The Ministry, however, called upon eligible voters to turn up in large numbers, vote peacefully and exercise their constitutional right to choose their leaders.
