Kampala, Uganda: The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has unveiled a set of strict rules governing the display of campaign posters and related materials in the city ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The move, according to authorities at City Hall, is aimed at maintaining public order, protecting infrastructure, and preserving Kampala’s visual appeal.
Under the new guidelines, all campaign posters must be approved by KCCA before display and cannot exceed dimensions of 0.9m (height) by 0.6m (width).
Posters are banned on hospitals, schools, churches, trees, and utility poles, while illuminated signs are allowed only on licensed billboards.
Sound campaigns are restricted to 8:00 am–5:00 pm, with a maximum volume of 80 decibels. Candidates are also encouraged to use designated notice boards instead of distributing loose-leaf fliers.
“To curb littering, the Authority has discouraged the use of fliers and loose-leaf materials. Candidates are encouraged to use designated notice boards, which will also make it easier to remove campaign tools after elections. Permit holders will be responsible for ensuring that their campaign materials are cleared at the end of the election period,” the KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki, said on Thursday, further warning that all campaign materials must be removed at the end of the election period.
According to Ms Buzeki, any violations, including unauthorized placement or defacing of rival posters, will be treated as illegal developments under the Physical Planning Act and the Building Control Act, with offenders liable for fines or imprisonment.
Legal Concerns Raised
Responding to the new set of regulations, Kampala Lord Mayor Elias Lukwago, who is also contesting in the upcoming elections, questioned the legality of the guidelines, saying they were issued in draft form and have not undergone the required legislative process to become binding.
“For KCCA to issue such regulations, they must be passed as an ordinance or form part of electoral law, debated and approved by council, and verified by the Attorney General. None of these steps have been taken,” Lukwago said.
But Hajjat Buzeki insists that the regulations are necessary to prevent the visual clutter, traffic hazards, and environmental degradation that marred previous elections, and is hopeful that the rules will ensure Kampala remains orderly, clean, and safe throughout the 2026 campaign period.
“These guidelines are intended to ensure order, safety, and respect for the city’s image as we head into the election season,” she emphasized.
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