More than 3,000 young people from Kampala have officially defected from the National Unity Platform (NUP) to the National Resistance Movement (NRM), pledging their support to President Yoweri Museveni. The move comes just days before the presidential nomination scheduled for September 23, 2025.
The mass defection took place over the weekend at a vibrant event at the NRM offices on Kyadondo Road, Kampala. Youth leaders cited frustration with what they described as repeated unfulfilled promises by NUP leadership.
Rubaga Coordinator Kakomo Juma, who led over 30 youth leaders from his zone, said, “We pledge our full support to President Museveni and will do everything to secure victory for him in Kampala.”
Kimuli Idrisa, a councilor from Kawempe Mbogo, revealed that he is encouraging other NUP councilors to join the NRM, noting that many had previously been misled by NUP propaganda. “This time, we have seen the light and are here to support President Museveni,” he said.
Makerere University student and youth leader Waswa Benerd, a prominent boxer from Kyebando, also pledged to mobilize his followers to back Museveni and all NRM candidates.
The event drew youth from Kawempe, Makindye, Rubaga, Nakawa, and parts of Wakiso. Participants handed in their NUP membership cards, publicly renounced the party, and embraced the NRM ahead of the presidential nominations.
Observers say the defections highlight a shift in youth support in Kampala, potentially boosting momentum for President Museveni’s campaign. Analysts suggest such large-scale moves could influence voter behavior in key urban areas.
NRM leaders welcomed the defectors, describing their decision as a vote of confidence in the ruling party’s vision for the country. They pledged to integrate the new members into party activities and encourage active engagement in the upcoming elections.
Critics of NUP warned that the defections could weaken the party’s influence in Kampala. Supporters, however, argue that youth are making informed choices and seeking stability through participation in governance.
With the presidential nomination approaching, the defection of over 3,000 youth signals shifting political dynamics and underscores the crucial role of young voters in Uganda’s upcoming elections.
