Frank Tumwebaze
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze has voiced concern over Uganda’s extended electioneering calendar. He warned that long political seasons pose a major threat to productivity, especially in the agriculture sector.
Tumwebaze’s remarks come in the wake of the Electoral Commission’s new roadmap for the 2025/2026 general elections, which sets a lengthy campaign period stretching from October 4, 2025, to February 9, 2026.
Speaking through social media, Tumwebaze stated: “We urgently need to review our election calendar and amend the law accordingly. Long periods of electioneering are a serious threat to production in all livelihood sectors. Food security will be compromised. We must allow people time to work.”
The Kibaale East MP’s comments echo sentiments from a growing number of Ugandans who feel the country’s political cycle has become too disruptive.
With nominations for local, parliamentary, and presidential candidates scheduled between September 3 and 24, 2025, and campaigns running for more than three months, many fear that economic activities—especially in rural and farming communities—will take a backseat during this prolonged period.
Observers note that in Uganda, election seasons take center stage for extended periods, affecting schools, trade, agriculture, and public services.
However, the Electoral Commission argues that early nominations provide more time for logistical preparations and transparency, critics argue that the overall election period remains too long and economically damaging.
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