The National Unity Platform (NUP) is set to announce its parliamentary flag bearers for the 2026 elections, with part of the list expected to be made public this weekend. The announcement will allow presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, known as Bobi Wine, to campaign alongside the party’s selected candidates.
Sources from NUP’s Electoral Management Committee indicate that key parliamentary seats have already been decided. In Kampala, Zaharah Luyirika is expected to replace incumbent Shamim Malende as Woman MP. Medard Segona leads in Busiro East, Stephen Sekigozi in Busiro South, and Kastar Bukenya in Busiro North. Other notable flag bearers include Kenneth Paul Kakande, Sebina Gyavira Lubowa, Rose Nalubowa, Brenda Nabukenya, Veronica Nanyondo, Hellen Nakimuli, and Joyce Bagala.
Some prominent politicians, including Sam Muyizi, Alice Nannungi, and Aloysius Mukasa, were not selected, reportedly to prioritize candidates who can defend or reclaim key constituencies. Selection criteria reportedly included financial resources, local influence, and past performance.
NUP has also emphasized that only official flag bearers will appear at Bobi Wine’s rallies. Party spokesperson Joel B Ssenyonyi said non-NUP politicians or independents attempting to leverage Kyagulanyi’s popularity will be barred. At a recent rally in Natete, this policy was strictly enforced.
By pairing parliamentary candidates with presidential campaign events, NUP aims to consolidate voter support, strengthen its presence in Buganda and other regions, and ensure a coordinated campaign strategy ahead of the 2026 elections.
