The National Unity Platform (NUP) has withdrawn party flags from nine parliamentary aspirants previously nominated, replacing them with new candidates ahead of the 2026 general elections. The decision followed petitions challenging the initial selection process, with nine out of 82 complaints upheld after review by the party’s vetting committee.
NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya confirmed the reshuffle affected four constituencies in Central Uganda and five in Eastern Uganda.
“Of the 82 people who appealed, only nine petitions had merit. After re-evaluating the process, the party decided to make a few adjustments to ensure fairness and transparency,” Rubongoya said.
Key Changes in Flagbearers
Central Uganda
Bukoto Central: Jamiru Kivumbi replaced by Alex Ntamu
Bukomansimbi North: Dr Christine Ndiwalana regained the flag from Christopher Nsereko Kayongo Engagga
Rakai Buyamba: Abel Atwiine dropped for Desire Osborne Kayima
Mityana South: Freddie Grace Kintu replaced by Kevin Nalwoga
Eastern Uganda
Bunyole West: Moses Lyada replaced by Peter Kaita
Budiope West: Anthony Kolobe replaced by Dominic Wakabi
Kigulu North: Muhammad Ntambi replaced by Julius Maganda
Kabweri County: Richard Mbayo replaced by Robert Kanyere
Bukooli Island: Joram Ochieno replaced by Dickson Ouma Oundo
Additionally, Hanifa Nabukeera Hussein, incumbent Mukono Woman MP, was replaced by Draville Sheilah Amaniyo, while Teddy Nambooze retained her flag for Mpigi Woman MP.
Reactions from Dropped Aspirants
Several aspirants criticized the party’s process as biased and unfair. Makindye West aspirant David Musiri announced plans to run independently:
“We shall not withdraw from the race. The people will be the final judges.”
Makindye East aspirant Robert Ssekidde also claimed favoritism in the review process:
“Our concerns were ignored. The process lacked transparency, and it’s clear some candidates were favored.”
Both indicated independent runs, potentially splitting NUP’s Kampala voter base.
Rubongoya defended the vetting process:
“Every complaint was reviewed thoroughly, and the final decision was made in the best interest of the party and the people.”
Meanwhile, Makindye East flagbearer Ali Kasirye Mulyannyama, who retained his nomination, supported the outcome:
“People can say what they want, but the process was open and competitive. I earned the flag through my track record and public trust.”
As parliamentary nominations approach, analysts suggest the reshuffle could either reinforce NUP’s credibility or reveal deeper divisions within Uganda’s largest opposition party.
