By Jazeerah Mirembe
The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially unveiled the roadmap for the Adjumani West Constituency by-election, setting polling day for September 17, 2026.
The parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of veteran statesman, decorated military officer, and former Second Deputy Prime Minister, Gen. Moses Ali.
Gen. Ali passed away at the age of 87 at Nakasero Hospital in Kampala, where he had been receiving specialized medical treatment for several days as public concern over his health grew.
Unveiling the election schedule during an address on Monday, August 3, 2026, EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama advised all prospective candidates to carefully review their statutory documentation and immediately consult the commission if they identify any paperwork issues prior to the official nomination exercise.
Official campaign activities will run for seven days, starting on September 9 and concluding on September 15, 2026. Justice Byabakama emphasized that a mandatory schedule harmonization meeting with the local Returning Officer will take place immediately after nominations to maintain order and prevent political clashes between rival groups.
“Candidates will gather before the Returning Officer to harmonize their campaign programs so that we are clear. If a candidate is in Pachara Sub-County that day, another candidate should not be there to avoid clashes,” Justice Byabakama stated.
“Campaigns officially run from September 9 until September 15. That is enough period for relative and responsible campaigning. In any case, if the people do not know you by now, seven days will not work for you,” he noted, appealing to all participants to strictly observe electoral laws and guidelines.
Gen. Ali’s remarkable political and military career spanned more than five decades, during which he served under successive Ugandan administrations in various high-profile roles, including cabinet minister, rebel leader, senior military commander, and Deputy Leader of Government Business in Parliament. Having been sworn in as the representative for Adjumani West County in the 12th Parliament in May 2026, his passing marked the end of an era for one of the nation’s most influential public figures.