Africa-Press – Uganda. The opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) has gained political momentum in Eastern Uganda following the defection of key leaders from both the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC).
During a high-profile regional engagement at St Andrews Cathedral in Mbale City, prominent figures including FDC’s Bugisu Coordinator Hajj Musa Massa and former Mbale Mayor Zandya Mutwalibi declared allegiance to the Kyagulanyi-led party.
“There is a lot of division in FDC. I have made up my mind to join NUP because I see a lot of hope in it,” said Massa, who also served as Mayor of Mbale Municipality’s Industrial Division.
Yusuf Murami, a division councillor in Mbale City, said the group had followed their mentor to NUP.
Others who defected include Bakali Mubaje, councillor for Mooni Ward; Ahamed Salim; and Robert Kuloba.
The event was part of a larger initiative to induct leaders from NUP’s emerging grassroots structures in the region, drawing hundreds of delegates from across Eastern Uganda.
NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu used the occasion to officially welcome the new members but warned against opportunism.
“You must understand why we risk, why we go to prison and come out, and go again. You must understand why we are dying—and are prepared to continue dying—until change comes,” Kyagulanyi said.
“Those seeking convenience belong to the NRM.”
He emphasised that flag bearers would be chosen based on their connection to the people and commitment to the party’s values, rather than proximity to the headquarters.
Kyagulanyi urged the new recruits to demonstrate integrity and avoid double standards, saying the party would not be a stepping stone for those seeking personal gain.
Newly inducted leaders took an oath of allegiance, symbolising their dedication to NUP’s mission of justice, democracy, and accountable leadership.
Kyagulanyi also called on them to intensify community mobilisation ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Highlighting the importance of grassroots mobilisation, he pointed to local vigilance groups known as “Egali” as crucial in safeguarding the electoral process and energising community support.
“We must continue building strong support at the grassroots. The power to transform this country lies in the hands of the people,” he said.
Although NUP’s Eastern Region Vice President John Baptist Nambeshe was absent from the event, his deputy Andrew Kiizakaluya clarified that Nambeshe was on official duty in Cairo, Egypt.
The latest wave of defections and the formal establishment of regional party structures suggest that NUP is strengthening its foothold in Eastern Uganda.
With Kyagulanyi’s sights firmly set on the 2026 elections, the opposition party’s expanding network could mark a new phase in Uganda’s shifting political terrain.
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