KEY DATES TO KNOW FOR RWANDA’S 2026 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS

Rwanda is preparing to hold elections for leaders of decentralised administrative entities and National Councils in 2026. The electoral process will begin at the village level and progress through the cell, sector and district levels, alongside elections for the National Women’s Council, National Youth Council and National Council of Persons with Disabilities.

According to the electoral calendar, the election process will run from 24 October to 30 November 2026, with the full composition of the National Councils expected to be completed by 15 December 2026.

The village, cell and sector elections are scheduled for 24 October, 31 October and 7 November, respectively. These elections will determine representatives and leaders at the grassroots levels and form an important part of the decentralised governance structure. 

What Happens at Each Level?

Village Level – 24 October

On 24 October 2026, citizens will participate in elections at village level. Among other positions, voters will elect the Village Executive Committee and representatives to the Cell Council. Elections will also cover relevant committees of the Village Women's Council and Village Youth Council.

Cell Level – 31 October

The cell-level elections will take place on 31 October 2026. These elections will include representatives to Sector Advisory Councils, women representatives and other designated representatives, as well as the Cell Council Bureau.

Sector Level – 7 November

On 7 November 2026, elections will be conducted at sector level. These include elections involving Sector Councils and the executive committees of the National Women's Council, National Youth Council and National Council of Persons with Disabilities at the relevant level. 

District Level – November

The district-level electoral process will follow the grassroots elections. Candidates for District Council seats will campaign from 7 to 21 November, with key elections taking place on 17, 21 and 24 November.

On 24 November, members of the District Council will elect the Council Bureau and the District Executive Committee, including the Mayor and two Vice Mayors.

National Council Elections

The electoral process also includes the National Women's Council, National Youth Council and National Council of Persons with Disabilities. The election of National Council Executive Committees will take place on 30 November 2026, while the full composition of the National Councils is expected to be completed by 15 December 2026.