Family and clan elders of National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, have urged him to award the party ticket for Kawempe South to his elder brother, Fred Nyanzi. Reports indicate that the elders traveled to Magere for a private meeting, pleading with Kyagulanyi to consider Nyanzi for the parliamentary seat.
During the discussion, the elders reminded Bobi Wine of the sacrifices Nyanzi made for him in his youth. They highlighted that Nyanzi used his limited resources to pay Bobi Wine’s school fees and helped shape him into the leader he is today. Without Nyanzi’s support, they argued, Bobi would likely still be struggling in the Kamwokya ghettos instead of heading a national political movement.
The family emphasized that such sacrifices should not be forgotten. They argued that the best way to repay Nyanzi is by giving him the NUP flag for Kawempe South. They also stressed that his contribution to Bobi Wine’s life and Uganda’s struggle for change should not be overlooked.
The elders also noted Nyanzi’s discipline and loyalty to the movement even when things did not go his way. For instance, when he was removed from his Kunga mobilization role and reassigned to the foreign affairs desk, Nyanzi accepted the decision quietly after guidance from family elders—a sign of his patience and respect for the bigger picture.
However, Nyanzi faces competition within the party. Sources reveal that NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya has been advocating for Hon. Shamim Malende in Kawempe South, introducing her to voters as the ideal candidate for the constituency.
Malende, however, is reportedly facing pushback from some residents. Voters in Kawempe South have expressed frustration with politicians they consider outsiders, citing examples like Bashir Kazibwe, whom they feel did not serve them effectively. This has given local contender Dr. Roy Ssemboga an advantage, as he has strong community ties.
Despite these dynamics, clan elders maintain that Nyanzi deserves a chance. They argue that family loyalty, past sacrifices, and dedication to the struggle should influence political decisions. Ignoring him, they warn, could create friction within both the family and the wider support base.
Currently, Nyanzi holds roughly 10% ground support, which is lower than other contenders. This leaves NUP officials in a delicate position as they weigh family loyalty against the party’s political strength in Kawempe South. A final decision on the party flag is expected soon.
The issue has become both a family and political matter. On one hand, it is about repaying Nyanzi for his sacrifices; on the other, it is about ensuring the strongest candidate represents NUP in a highly competitive constituency.
Ultimately, the decision will impact not only Nyanzi and Bobi Wine but also the perception of NUP as a party that values fairness, loyalty, and democracy. All eyes remain on Kyagulanyi to see whether he sides with his clan elders or leaves the choice to party structures.
