The electronic absorption spectra of 5-(o-substituted phenylazo)-6-amino-2-thiouracils and 6-(o-substituted phenylazo)-5-aminouracils containing different substituents are studied at different pH's. The dissociation constants are evaluated and discussed. Phenomenon of tautomerism is more supported by 1 H NMR and 13 C NMR spectra. The electrical conductivity of some ligands and their Co II , Ni II and Cu II complexes in the temperature range 293–150K favoured their semiconducting properties where the metal ion forms a bridge to facilitate the flow of the current. The biological activity of some ligands and their complexes are tested against a number of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. The results showed that some of the compounds have a well considerable activity against some of the organisms.