Uganda’s Catholic Bishops urged all stakeholders to ensure peaceful elections ahead of the January 15, 2026, polls, warning that rising campaign violence threatens the country’s democracy. In their Christmas message, delivered by Bishop Joseph Anthony Zziwa, the bishops called on the Electoral Commission to assert control of the electoral process and on security forces to avoid violence. They reminded candidates to follow electoral laws and appealed to voters to reject bribery and conflict.

Uganda rejected Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as an independent state, aligning with the African Union’s position that borders established at independence in the 1960s should remain intact. Israel became the first country to formally recognize Somaliland, a self-declared region of Somalia, citing its right to self-determination and potential strategic cooperation. Somalia, the AU, and several countries condemned the move, citing threats to Somalia’s sovereignty. The US defended Israel’s decision at the UNSC.

President Yoweri Museveni pledged new road links in Mukono District to decongest Kampala and strengthen regional connectivity during a January 2, 2026, NRM campaign rally. He condemned the alleged theft of Parish Development Model funds and called on residents to hold local leaders accountable. Museveni highlighted NRM achievements in education, health, water access, and household wealth creation, framing infrastructure and social services as part of the party’s strategy to consolidate support ahead of the elections.