In a calculated move, the National Unity Platform (NUP) has unveiled a revamped roster of parliamentary candidates, signaling a major internal shift aimed at reinvigorating the party’s political base ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections.
Several high-profile incumbents including Busiro East MP Medard Sseggona, Makindye East MP Allan Ssewanyana, and Mityana District Woman MP Joyce Bagala have been dropped in a surprise shake-up that underscores NUP’s commitment to internal renewal and performance-based representation.
The updated list, released by the party’s Election Management Committee chaired by Harriet Chemutai, introduces a blend of fresh faces, strategic redeployments, and high-profile entries marking what insiders describe as a “generational and tactical refresh.”
Among the most headline-grabbing changes is the replacement of veteran MP Medard Sseggona with popular local musician Mathias Walukagga in Busiro East a move widely seen as a bid to deepen grassroots appeal through cultural influence.
Kampala Central is also set for an intense political showdown, as NUP Secretary General Lewis Rubongoya enters the race to challenge incumbent independent MP Muhammad Nsereko. Rubongoya’s candidacy signals the party’s intent to reclaim high-profile urban constituencies.
In another key development, Zahara Luyilika, who lost the party’s Kampala Woman MP endorsement to incumbent Shamim Malende, has been redirected to Makindye West. This effectively sidelines sitting MP Allan Ssewanyana, raising questions about his political future within the party.
Meanwhile, Fred Nyanzi Ssentamu elder brother to NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) has secured the party’s flag for Kawempe South, replacing Kazibwe Bashir Mbaziira in a notable family-backed reshuffle.
Makindye East also witnessed a dramatic turnaround, with incumbent Derrick Nyeko reversing his earlier decision to bow out of the 2026 race and re-entering the contest just before the nomination deadline.
In Mityana District, Joyce Bagala has been replaced by Proscovia Mukisa, a move analysts interpret as a recalibration aimed at strengthening local mobilization.
NUP’s renewal strategy continues in Nansana Municipality, where journalist and political newcomer Zambali Brasio Mukasa has been chosen to replace Nsereko Wakayima Musoke another sign of the party’s bet on fresh energy and public visibility.
Despite the shake-up, continuity has been preserved in key leadership areas. Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of the Opposition and MP for Nakawa West, retains the party’s endorsement a reflection of his solidified role within the NUP hierarchy.
Party officials say the sweeping changes are the result of a rigorous internal vetting process designed to reward credibility, community engagement, and alignment with NUP’s long-term political vision.
With the 2026 elections on the horizon, the restructured lineup positions NUP as a party willing to make difficult, strategic choices in pursuit of a stronger parliamentary presence and renewed public trust.
