Opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) has announced an extension of its nomination process for party aspirants ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The new deadline for submitting expression of interest forms is now 25th July, following the initial closure on Monday.
According to the party’s Electoral Management Committee (EMC), the decision was made in response to overwhelming requests from members who encountered logistical and legal delays.
“We received countless appeals from members across the country who couldn’t meet the original deadline due to various challenges. This extension ensures inclusivity and fairness,” said *Harriet Chemutai, the Chairperson of NUP's EMC.
The party has also reopened the process for submitting expression of interest forms nationwide, effective immediately.
However, tensions have escalated between NUP and the national Electoral Commission (ECU) over a new directive requiring all candidates to re-verify their academic documents—even those already verified in previous elections.
NUP has strongly opposed the move, describing it as a targeted and financially burdensome tactic against opposition candidates.
“This is a well-calculated, exorbitant move aimed at frustrating opposition aspirants,” Chemutai argued.
Despite NUP’s formal request for the re-verification requirement to be suspended, the Electoral Commission insists the guideline is in line with current electoral laws.
“Unless the law is overturned, all aspirants must comply with the existing nomination guidelines,” said *Julius Mucunguzi*, spokesperson for the Electoral Commission.
To manage the growing number of submissions and ensure order, NUP has introduced new internal guidelines. Candidates are now restricted to bringing no more than 10 supporters during the nomination process to prevent overcrowding at submission centers.
As of now, over 50,000 NUP members have submitted their expression of interest forms, highlighting the party’s growing mobilization ahead of the 2026 polls.