Justice Simon Byabakama, the Chairperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), has issued a firm reminder to business owners operating bars near polling stations ahead of voting day.
Speaking during election preparations ealier today at EC headquarters , Byabakama emphasized that the law strictly prohibits the sale of alcohol within a 100-meter radius of any polling station on election day.
He urged bar owners to comply without resistance, stressing that the measure is meant to maintain order and discipline during the voting process.
“For those who have bars next to polling stations, the law says you shall not sell any liquor within 100 meters of the polling station. So please close the bar; you will not collapse for just one day,” Byabakama stated.
The EC Chairperson warned that enforcement teams will be on the ground to ensure compliance, calling on all business owners to cooperate in safeguarding a peaceful and credible election.
The elections are scheduled for Thursday 15th January 2026 and it was declared as public holiday by president Yoweri Kaguta Museveni
As Uganda heads toward the polls, authorities continue to roll out strict guidelines aimed at preventing disruptions and ensuring voters cast their ballots in a calm environment.
