By N. Julius, Trending Ug Reporter
Kampala, Uganda – September 29th, 2025 – In a electrifying move that’s already sending shockwaves through Uganda’s political landscape, the National Unity Platform (NUP) dropped its highly anticipated list of parliamentary flagbearers on Monday, September 29, effectively issuing “party cards” to a fresh lineup of candidates poised to storm the 2026 elections. The release, handled by NUP’s Electoral Management Committee, has sparked jubilation, controversy, and intense debate, with some incumbents retaining their spots while others face stunning upsets.
NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, better known as Bobi Wine, hailed the selections as a bold step toward renewal, congratulating the winners while urging them to uphold the party’s values of integrity and people-centered leadership. “Here is the list of successful National Unity Platform candidates for Member of Parliament for Buganda!” the party announced on X, followed by similar posts for the Eastern Region and beyond, unveiling a provisional roster that mixes seasoned politicians with emerging voices.
Key highlights from the explosive list include:
Family Ties and Fresh Starts: Bobi Wine’s elder brother, Fred Nyanzi, secured the NUP flag for Kawempe South MP, injecting a personal dynamic into the race.
High-Profile Upsets: Busiro East MP Medard Sseggona, a veteran from the former Democratic Party bloc, was edged out by challenger Walukaga in a jaw-dropping twist. Sseggona later claimed NUP had long sought to sideline him and others, even before the Mathias Mpuuga controversy. The party denied cards to several influential figures, fueling accusations of internal purges.
Regional Power Shifts: The Buganda and Eastern lists feature retained incumbents alongside newcomers, aiming to bolster NUP’s grassroots strength in key areas historically dominated by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).
To address potential grievances, NUP opened a swift two-day appeal window, allowing unsuccessful aspirants to challenge the decisions and ensure transparency in the process. This comes amid NUP’s broader campaign frenzy, including the recent manifesto launch in Jinja and regional headquarters openings, as the party ramps up its “#ProtestVote2026” momentum.
Analysts are buzzing: This flagbearer reveal could redefine opposition dynamics, empowering youth and reformists while exposing rifts within NUP. As appeals wrap up, all eyes are on how these “party cards” translate to battlefield victories in January 2026.
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