PFF extends expression of interest exercise, nomination dates

The Peoples’ Front for Freedom (PFF) party has extended nominations exercise for various positions countrywide.

The development comes after hearing from aspirants and other members who had challenges accessing expression of interest forms online and party cards.

“The time has been insufficient for us to get key flag-bearers who can win us many positions in the next elections because we were registered late as a party. We hope that our extension attracts us competent flag bearers from all over the country,” Micheal Kabaziguruka, the PFF electoral commission chairperson, said on August 1, 2025, at Plot 6, Katonga Road in Nakasero Kampala. 

Please note that the nominations for the national electoral commission begin on September 2, 2025, so there will be no extension beyond August 29 this year, he threatened.

The decision to extend, according to Kabaziguruka, was an attempt to attract frustrated big shots from the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party and other opposition parties trying to contest as independents in 2026 after chaotic and violent primary elections.

“We believe that this extension shall attract big fish from the NRM and the opposition parties battling over party tickets,” he observed.

The deadline was extended after attracting over 10,000 candidates expressing interest by the end of July 31. 

 “We have decided to extend the expression of interest and nomination deadline as follows; local government positions extended up to August 22 and the presidential and parliamentary positions extended up to August 29, 2025,” Kabaziguruka emphasised.

Harmonisation and consensus building in electoral areas which are hotly contested is highly encouraged, he advised.

Currently, the Rukungiri Municipality MP aspirants seek to divide the party support bitterly with Ingrid Turinawe Kamateneti battling former MP, Roland Mugume Kaginda for the PFF card.

“In the meantime, aspirants are advised not to engage in activities that offend our electoral guidelines and other laws. The EC will not hesitate to disqualify aspirants who engage in unlawful practices,” he warned.

The Kampala University lecturer, Aliban Rukundo receives expression of interest forms at Plot 6 Katonga Road in Nakasero Kampala. (Credit: Isaac Nuwagaba)

Aliban nominated to battle Naboth Namanya for Rubabo MP seat

The Kampala University lecturer, Aliban Rukundo is struggling to beat the outspoken Rubabo MP, Naboth Namanya over what he allegedly failed to address during his five-year term of office.

Namanya who is accused of failing to bring a health facility in the area highly vulnerable to maternal health care challenges faces criticism from the voters who have poor road networks to transport their farm produce in the area.

“I aim to leverage my connections with higher institutions in Uganda to secure sponsorships that will enhance educational opportunities for the people of Rubabo,” he stated.

Rukundo highlighted the poor conditions of critical infrastructure, such as the Minera Bridge, which connects various sub-counties. He pledged to work with the government to improve roads, water supply, and electricity access for the residents of Rubabo.

Namanya not threatened

When Namanya was contacted on the matter, he accused the Government of frustrating service delivery in Rukungiri district ever since former Forum for Democratic Change presidential flag-bearer and now PFF chairperson council of eminent persons, Dr Col. Kiiza Besigye.

Others who were nominated included Brian Atuhaire for Kinkiizi West Constituency in Kanungu district.