By Jumah Kakomo
The Opposition Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) has issued a stern warning to its members: anyone who loses in the upcoming party primaries and chooses to run as an independent risks expulsion from the party.
According to party spokesperson Arach Oyat Sharon, members who defect to run independently or join another party will face disciplinary action, including possible loss of membership, as outlined in Article 3.6 of the party’s constitution.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at the party headquarters ahead of the forthcoming party primaries.
- August 16, 2025: Elections for Members of Parliament, District Chairpersons, and City/Division/Municipal Mayors.
- August 18, 2025: Elections for District, City, Division, and Municipal Councillors, as well as Chairpersons.
Sharon also noted that, in accordance with Executive Order No. 001/2025 issued by party president Jimmy Akena, village branch executives are authorized to vote in primaries at the parish, sub-county, constituency, and district levels.
Additionally, she mentioned that the party’s Electoral Commission has identified several unopposed candidates. Their names will be officially announced in due course.
UPC’s Head of Media and Communications, Faizo Muzeyi, appealed for calm in areas where primaries are to be held.
“We want to assure all aspiring candidates that the party primaries will be peaceful, transparent, free, and fair,” said Muzeyi.
He further stressed the importance of all members adhering strictly to the party’s roadmap and constitution throughout the electoral process.
