Singer-turned-politician Mathias Walukagga has clarified that he will not contest as an independent candidate if he fails to secure the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag for the Busiro East parliamentary seat.
Speaking during the ongoing vetting process at the party headquarters in Makerere Kavule, Walukagga said his loyalty to NUP remains firm and that he is committed to respecting the outcome of the internal selection process. “I will not run as an independent. If the party doesn’t select me, I will abide by that decision,” he stated.
Walukagga, who is widely known for his music career and socially conscious lyrics, has in recent years transitioned into active politics, using his platform to address community concerns.
His decision to tie his political ambitions strictly to NUP demonstrates the growing importance of party cohesion ahead of the 2026 elections.
The announcement comes at a time when several high-profile figures, including Kampala Woman MP Shamim Malende, have appeared before the vetting committee as the party streamlines its candidate list for different constituencies.
For Busiro East, Walukagga’s declaration means the constituency race will likely remain firmly under the NUP umbrella, avoiding the vote-splitting that has often undermined opposition candidates in the past.
Party insiders view Walukagga’s commitment as a welcome show of discipline in an era where defections and independent candidacies have weakened collective opposition strength.
For his supporters, the assurance signals that his political aspirations are rooted in teamwork and party unity rather than individual ambition.
As the vetting continues, Walukagga’s stance positions him as both a loyal party cadre and a serious contender for Busiro East, depending on the committee’s final decision.
“Mathias Walukagga vows not to run as an independent if NUP does not select him as flag bearer for Busiro East MP seat.”