Halt Work, Go Vote! Museveni Declares Jan 15th,16th Public Holidays To Facilitate Elections

By Swift Reporter

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has declared January 15 and 16, 2026, public holidays to allow citizens across the country to fully participate in the upcoming Presidential and Parliamentary elections.

The declaration follows the signing of an official instrument by the President, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring broad public participation in the electoral process. The two-day holiday is intended to give voters adequate time to cast their ballots without the constraints of work or other official duties.

Electoral authorities and government officials have welcomed the move, noting that public holidays during elections help promote inclusivity, reduce congestion at polling stations, and enhance voter turnout, particularly for citizens who may need to travel to their registered voting areas.

The Presidential and Parliamentary elections are a key milestone in Uganda’s democratic process, with millions of voters expected to take part nationwide.

Authorities have urged citizens to use the holiday responsibly, adhere to electoral guidelines, and maintain peace before, during, and after the voting period, as the country prepares for the polls.