KAMPALA – The Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, has proposed sweeping amendments to Uganda’s electoral laws that would significantly raise the bar for individuals seeking to contest for the presidency in the 2031 general elections.
Barugahara’s proposal comes in the wake of an unusually high number of people who have picked nomination papers from the Electoral Commission, many of whom are viewed as unserious candidates with no real political structures or national agenda.
Speaking on X (formerly Twitter), the minister argued that the current system is too lenient and allows frivolous aspirants to crowd the ballot.
“I propose to Parliament amending electoral laws for the 2031 elections to enhance the presidential nomination process,” he said.
Among the key proposals is the introduction of a non-refundable nomination fee of Shs 100 million, to be paid upfront upon picking forms. According to Barugahara, this would deter unserious individuals and ensure that only candidates with genuine commitment enter the race. He further suggested that refunds should only be made to candidates who successfully qualify for the ballot.
Other recommendations include:
A bachelor’s degree as the minimum qualification for presidential aspirants.
Prior national service experience as an added advantage.
A mandatory three-week training at Kyankwanzi for successful applicants, focusing on patriotism, leadership, and basic military drills.
Barugahara explained that these reforms would instill discipline and patriotism among leaders while streamlining Uganda’s democratic process.
“This aims to promote discipline, patriotism, and serious candidacy,” he noted.
The minister’s comments have already sparked debate, with some Ugandans welcoming the idea of stricter vetting, while others argue it risks shutting out potential leaders from humble backgrounds.
The discussion now shifts to Parliament, which will ultimately decide whether to take up Barugahara’s proposals as part of broader electoral reforms ahead of 2031.
