NUP Risks Losing Public Funding Under New Political Parties Law
The National Unity Platform (NUP) could face a significant funding crisis ahead of the 2026 general elections after Parliament passed the Political Parties and Organisations (Amendment) Act, 2025—a law that ties public funding to political parties’ conduct and participation in inter-party dialogue.
The new law, passed on Tuesday, requires political parties to uphold democratic principles such as tolerance, peaceful co-existence, and mandatory participation in the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) to qualify for state funding.
Key Clause Targets IPOD Participation
The law amends Section 14 of the existing Political Parties Act, limiting financial support to parties represented in Parliament that also meet the new conditions. The clause makes IPOD membership a mandatory requirement, a condition that NUP has historically rejected, citing its perceived alignment with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Currently, NUP receives over UGX 3.1 billion annually in public funds, supporting its operations, grassroots mobilization, media campaigns, and diaspora engagement. Under the new rules, that funding is at risk.
Opposition MPs Slam Bill
Opposition lawmakers voiced strong objections. Lira Municipality MP Jimmy Akena called the law “diabolical”, accusing it of being rushed through Parliament without adequate stakeholder engagement. MP Jonathan Odur, in a minority report, argued that the bill was unconstitutional, warning it could be used to punish political dissent.
“It seeks to weaponize state funding and punish parties that don’t conform to the ruling party’s approach,” Odur said during the heated session.
The Bill was tabled by MP Faith Nakut and passed despite stiff resistance.
Supporters Say Law Will Promote Political Ethics
The Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, which supported the bill, defended the move as necessary to promote stability, discourage violent rhetoric, and encourage inclusive politics. Their report emphasized the need to link public resources to responsible party behavior.
Rights Groups Raise Red Flags
Critics and rights advocates argue that the law sets a dangerous precedent that could systematically undermine opposition parties, particularly as the country heads into the next election cycle.
“This law essentially says: follow the government’s preferred path or lose your resources,” said a legal analyst familiar with the law’s implications.
With the Electoral Commission expected to review party eligibility soon, NUP must either join IPOD or mount a successful legal challenge to maintain its funding stream.
