UCP chooses the people it puts forward for election on merit and honesty - not money, family name or connections. Here is the path every UCP candidate must complete before they can contest.
A path you climb, step by step
Leadership in UCP is earned, not handed out. Everyone begins as a member and volunteer - and those who serve their community well rise, step by step, into leadership. The more you do for people, the further you can go. Become a member and start the climb.
Become a Member
Join UCP and work with us. Membership is free and open to every citizen.
Step 2 · Both at the same time · about 6 months
Knowledge Learn
Training in political science, governance, the Constitution and laws, the duties of an elected leader, and ethics. Ends with the Leader's Test (pass to qualify).
3 months - if you have a degree in Political Science / Public Administration / Law, or proven knowledge.
6 months - if you are new to politics.
Service Do
Real grassroots work through our programs - proving character and commitment on the ground.
6 months of volunteership - as a Lead (running a program) or a Supporter (working under a lead).
Honest & Clean Record
We look for honest people with a clean record - no criminal background - who sign a simple pledge to serve with integrity.
Selection Panel
An independent panel reviews each person on a clear, published scorecard - knowledge, service, honesty and local support.
Nomination to Contest
Those who clear every step earn the right to stand for election as a UCP candidate.
Two routes, one standard
You do not need a college degree to lead. Knowledge can come from a degree or from our internship. Either way, everyone sits the same Leader's Test - so every UCP candidate has truly learned politics, governance and the law.
An open door for proven, honest people
We also welcome experienced, clean-record citizens with some relaxation in the education guideline - for example, people above 50 with a lifetime of social service, retired officers, or respected community members who wish to serve. What we never relax is an honest record with no criminal background. Knowledge is still expected - through the internship.
Want to walk this path?
Start by joining and volunteering for a program. That is the first step for everyone.