The United Democratic Party (UDP) has raised concerns over what it describes as the continued denial of access to the Kairaba International Conference Centre for its political activities, calling it a threat to equal treatment ahead of the 2026 presidential election. The UDP made a second request to use the centre for its 30th Anniversary Celebration Conference. “It raises a broader issue about equal treatment, access to public facilities, and the conditions necessary for a free, fair, and credible electoral environment.” The party argued that free and fair elections require more than voting, and must include equitable access to public spaces, information, and media. “As the country moves toward the 2026 presidential election, we call on the Independent Electoral Commission, civil society organisations, media organisations, relevant authorities, and the general public to pay close attention to issues of equal access and equal treatment of political parties,” the UDP stated.