In a major shake-up ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections, the National Unity Platform (NUP) has unveiled its new list of parliamentary flag bearers for the Buganda sub-region, a traditional stronghold for the opposition party. This move has seen the exclusion of high-profile figures, including Mityana Woman MP Joyce Bagala and Busiro East MP Medard Lubega Ssegona, reflecting what insiders have described as a strategic renewal of the party’s electoral lineup.
The new list, released on Monday, sees several familiar names retaining their positions, including Joel Ssenyonyi (Nakawa West), Shamim Malende (Kampala Woman), and David Lewis Rubongoya (Kampala Central Division). However, other figures have been replaced following an extensive vetting process, internal reviews, and consultations, with Bagala and Ssegona’s absence sparking debates within the party.
New Faces and Strategic Shifts
Among the new entrants to the NUP team are youthful candidates with strong grassroots support. Notable additions include:
- David Lewis Rubongoya, NUP Secretary General, who will contest Kampala Central Division.
- Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, Deputy Spokesperson, representing Nakawa East Division.
- Nalukoola Elias Luyimbaazi, a lawyer and activist, for Kawempe North.
- Kasirye Nganda Ali for Makindye East Division.
- Nantongo Fortunate Rose as Woman MP for Kyotera District.
Other key figures include Nakwedde Harriet for Kayunga Woman MP, Kaaya Christine Nakimwero for Kiboga Woman MP, and Zaake Francis Butebi, who will retain the Mityana Municipality seat, signaling continuity amid the party’s wider changes.
The shake-up also features strong representation from Wakiso District, with figures such as Betty Ethel Naluyima (Woman MP), Namatta Namuli Joyce (Entebbe Municipality), and Walukagga Mathias (Busiro County East).
Aimed at Strengthening NUP’s Hold on Buganda
Sources within NUP suggest that the reshuffle is aimed at consolidating the party’s dominance in Buganda, which accounts for nearly a third of Uganda’s national vote. With Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) expected to officially launch the party’s parliamentary campaigns in the region next month, NUP aims to showcase a revamped electoral team focused on quality representation, good governance, and a people-driven economy.
The move underscores the party’s commitment to preparing not just for numbers in Parliament but for leadership that truly represents the interests and will of the people.
