Africa-Press – Uganda. Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), Resident City Commissioners (RCCs), and their deputies are free to contest in the 2026 general elections, the Minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, has clarified, dismissing claims that President Museveni had barred them from seeking political office.
In a post shared on X, Babalanda said no such directive had been issued and described the reports circulating on social media as baseless.
“I wish to clarify that President Museveni has not stopped any RDC/DRDC/RCC/DRCC or Assistant RDC/RCC from standing for any political office as it is being circulated online,” she said.
She also rubbished claims that the President had convened a meeting instructing commissioners to refrain from political ambitions.
“The President hasn’t held any meeting to stop anyone or cause them to desist from contesting,” she noted, adding, “It’s everybody’s constitutional right to contest for a position as long as they follow the law.”
The clarification comes amid heightened speculation over the political future of several commissioners, many of whom are reportedly eyeing elective positions in their home districts ahead of the 2026 vote.
While reiterating that RDCs and RCCs are expected to conduct themselves within the confines of the law, Babalanda stressed that her ministry’s role was only to provide guidance.
“It is, therefore, my hope that those interested have accordingly complied. Please disregard the rumours circulating!” she said.
RDCs and RCCs serve as the President’s representatives in the districts and cities, charged with monitoring the implementation of government programmes and maintaining security.
Despite being appointed officials, many have historically transitioned into active politics, leveraging their grassroots networks and administrative visibility.
In recent months, several commissioners have informally declared their interest in parliamentary and local government seats, with some already conducting low-key consultations in their constituencies.
The government’s clarification is expected to ease anxiety within the RDC ranks and among aspirants, especially in rural areas where these officials often wield considerable influence.
The 2026 elections are expected to be fiercely contested, with growing interest across the ruling NRM party and opposition formations, even as debates continue over the neutrality of serving civil servants who venture into politics.
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