KAMPALA, Uganda — The National Unity Platform (NUP) is facing a critical juncture, grappling with internal dissent while aiming to maintain its dominance in the Buganda region ahead of the 2026 elections. As NUP struggles to quell a rebellion within its ranks, the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) is actively strategizing to regain lost ground.
Internal strife has plagued NUP for the past two years, marked by allegations of corruption, power struggles, and escalating tensions. Last year, a faction led by former Leader of the Opposition Mathias Mpuuga formed the Democratic Alliance (DA), a move perceived by critics as a refuge for NUP dissidents.
Now, NUP is demanding reconciliation. Butambala County MP Muwanga Kivumbi, NUP’s deputy president for Buganda, has issued a 30-day ultimatum for DA members to apologize or face disciplinary action. “Those who wronged the party should apologize and we move on,” Kivumbi stated during a recent NUP meeting in Kavule.
NUP’s ambition to secure 100 parliamentary seats in Buganda, a region with 105 constituencies, faces a significant challenge from the NRM. In the 2021 elections, NUP won 55 seats, while the NRM secured 31. The NRM, however, has vowed to reclaim its lost seats, targeting NUP strongholds such as Mubende, Kasanda, Sembabule, and Masaka.
NUP’s internal divisions have deepened with Kivumbi’s criticism of DA-aligned MPs, including Mpuuga, Michael Kakembo, Abedi Bwanika, Juliet Nakabuye Kakande, and Joyce Bagala. These constituencies are now described by NUP leadership as “empty,” symbolizing betrayal.
Rebel MPs, including Bwanika, Kakande, and Bagala, have rejected NUP’s demand for apologies.
“We were elected by the people of Masaka city, not by NUP,” Bwanika asserted, warning Kivumbi that his own seat could be at risk. The rebel faction plans to expand its influence in Buganda, rallying support for alternative leaders.
NUP’s strategy of isolating itself has drawn criticism. Kira Municipality MP Ibrahim Nganda Ssemujju pointed out that unlike the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), which formed alliances with other opposition parties, NUP is pursuing a solitary path. Political analysts warn that NUP’s internal conflicts could benefit the NRM.
Meanwhile, the NRM has launched a campaign, “Buganda for Museveni,” to reclaim its lost territory. Ministers and MPs are conducting rallies across Buganda, addressing grievances and promising to fulfill past pledges. The NRM is focusing on delivering tangible results to regain voter trust.
The NRM’s strategy includes addressing issues such as land disputes, economic grievances, and infrastructure development. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, Uganda’s Attorney General, emphasized that the NRM is auditing its performance and will explain any unfulfilled promises.
Political analysts note that voter apathy could play a role in the 2026 elections, potentially favoring the NRM. However, the absence of influential NRM figures from past years could pose a challenge. Ultimately, the voters will decide the outcome of the battle for Buganda.
