Fresh reports from the National Unity Platform (NUP) headquarters in Kamwokya indicate growing tension within the opposition party, following revelations that several of its top legislators who were denied party flags are now in secret talks with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), a movement led by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba and Speaker of Parliament Anita Among.
According to reliable sources, the discussions reportedly focus on the possibility of the affected MPs contesting as independents in the 2026 general elections — with alleged assurances of financial and logistical backing from the PLU camp. In return, these MPs are said to have been promised government support once elected to Parliament.
Key Figures Reportedly in Talks
Those said to be engaged in the discussions include:
-
Hon. Allan Ssewanyana (Makindye West)
-
Hon. Derrick Nyeko (Makindye East)
-
Hon. Joyce Bagala (Mityana)
-
Hon. Abed Bwanika (Kimaanya–Kabonera)
-
Hon. Mathias Mpuuga (Nyendo–Mukungwe)
Although Hon. Mpuuga and Hon. Bwanika belong to the Democratic Front, their involvement reportedly adds to the growing unease within the NUP camp.
Sources close to Kamwokya reveal that party president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) was particularly disappointed upon learning that Bagala and Mpuuga — two of the party’s most prominent figures — were on the list. Insiders claim that Hon. Bagala’s relationship with the NUP leadership soured after she allegedly received external assistance to win her 2021 election petition, while Mpuuga’s fallout with the party intensified during the controversial “service award” saga earlier this year.
Ticket Denial Controversies
Party insiders also cite internal disputes that arose during the NUP’s vetting process for 2026 flag bearers:
-
In Makindye West, supporters of Hon. Ssewanyana accused the party of favoritism after the flag was handed to Hon. Zahara, who they allege has personal ties to former mayor Mulyanyama.
-
In Mityana, Hon. Bagala lost the ticket to Naboosa, said to be closely associated with Hon. Zaake Butebi, amid claims that her friendship with Mpuuga influenced the decision.
-
In Makindye East, Hon. Nyeko’s supporters also protested, alleging that the process was manipulated in favor of loyalists to certain top officials.
Crisis at Kamwokya
These developments have reportedly left NUP’s top leadership unsettled, with growing fears that the internal mistrust could erode the party’s unity ahead of the 2026 polls.
As of press time, the NUP secretariat had not issued an official statement on the matter. However, sources at Kamwokya confirmed that emergency meetings are ongoing as the leadership works to contain the fallout and prevent further defections.
This is a developing story.
