The PFF candidate selection guidelines were unveiled in Kampala, thus setting a clear path for the People’s Front for Freedom in Uganda’s upcoming elections.
The party’s founding committee approved these guidelines after thorough discussions. They were released Monday at the party’s headquarters. Consequently, the roadmap outlines nomination fees, voting procedures, and conflict resolution for candidates on the party’s ticket.
Mr. Michael Kabaziguruka, chairperson of the PFF electoral commission, explained that the PFF candidate selection guidelines include fees based on the position sought. For example, presidential aspirants will pay Shs2.5 million, parliamentary and mayoral candidates pay Shs500,000, and divisional mayor hopefuls pay Shs250,000. Meanwhile, Local Council 3 councillor candidates pay a nominal fee of Shs10,000.
Expression of interest forms became available right after the announcement. Kabaziguruka encouraged all interested members to pick up forms from district offices or headquarters. Importantly, candidates must pay fees when submitting the completed forms.
The PFF candidate selection guidelines also state that if multiple people want the same position, the party will first try to build consensus. However, if they cannot agree, the party will vet candidates to pick one official flagbearer. This process helps keep the party united and avoids internal conflict, a lesson learned from its split from the FDC.
Furthermore, Kabaziguruka stressed discipline within the party ranks. He said, “We aim to field candidates for every elective position. We know other parties share our vision. Therefore, if chances arise, we will cooperate. But as PFF, we are ready to contest all levels.”
The guidelines reflect more than fees and procedures. In fact, they reinforce the party’s core values: freedom, accountability, and ethical leadership. Kabaziguruka urged aspirants to follow these principles to strengthen the party’s reputation.
He described PFF as a “freedom network” that will break political stagnation and empower Ugandans. “The PFF electoral commission now operates fully and guarantees transparent and democratic candidate selection across the board,” he said.
To build momentum, PFF will hold a national convention on July 8. This event will approve interim leaders and committees. It will also serve as the party’s official launch.
The convention will unite top opposition figures including Wasswa Birigwa, Erias Lukwago, Wafula Oguttu, Salaam Musumba, Harold Kaija, Ibrahim Ssemujju, and Engrid Tirinawe. The party was founded by veteran opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, who remains imprisoned but continues to inspire the movement.
PFF formed after a split in the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) due to internal disputes. This new party focuses on justice, participation, and reform.
In May 2025, the Electoral Commission of Uganda registered PFF as an independent party. Since then, it has built its legal and organizational structures. Hence, the release of the PFF candidate selection guidelines signals its readiness for the 2026 elections.
These guidelines represent a major step in Uganda’s opposition politics. By formalizing candidate selection, encouraging unity, and welcoming alliances, PFF offers a disciplined alternative to the ruling NRM and other opposition groups.
The July 8 convention will mark a new chapter for the party. As Mr. Francis Mwijukye said, “Now that PFF functions legally, politically, and socially, we are ready to fight. We are officially on board.”
Ugandans now have a clear path to engage with PFF as candidates or supporters. Thus, the PFF candidate selection guidelines begin a new, bold era in the country’s multiparty democracy.
Read: Uganda Youth Political Participation Key to 2026 Elections
