Africa-Press – Uganda. Joseph Kabuleta, leader of the National Economic Empowerment Dialogue (NEED) party, has hinted at a leadership shake-up within his political camp just weeks after his suspension from within.
Speaking on a local TV station this morning, Kabuleta cited internal disloyalty and ideological drift as reasons for considering the removal of certain unnamed party officials.
“We cannot go into the 2026 elections with a divided house,” said Kabuleta, who did not name the said officials.
“This is a time for clarity, unity of purpose, and for cutting off what weakens our message. Uganda needs leaders who serve the people, not themselves.”
The Press has contacted Kabuleta for a rejoinder on the alleged reshuffle within his party.
His comments come weeks after NEED party leaders announced his suspension for 30 days in July, accusing him of misconduct.
Kabuleta rejected the suspension after he has announced his bid to challenge President Museveni for the second time in 2025 presidential election.
Kabuleta, who made headlines during his 2021 presidential bid, appears to be repositioning both himself and the NEED party as serious contenders, especially in regions like Bunyoro where he has long championed local economic empowerment.
He first gained national attention during Uganda’s COVID-19 lockdown when he openly criticised the government’s handling of the pandemic and accused authorities of economic mismanagement — a message that resonated with informal workers and small business owners hit hardest by prolonged restrictions.
“The lockdown exposed the true nature of Uganda’s leadership,” he said.
“People now understand that liberation won’t come from promises, but from economic power returning to the people.”
Kabuleta’s remarks reflect wider tensions within Uganda’s opposition and his hint at a purge signals both a warning and a reset ahead of 2026.
“We’re not playing the old political games,” he said.
“This is a movement, not a club for career politicians. Uganda’s salvation lies in the economy, and we’re here to take that message to every village.”
As Uganda edges closer to election day on January 12, 2026, Kabuleta’s next moves could determine not only his political future but also the NEED party’s place in a crowded opposition field.
For More News And Analysis About Uganda Follow Africa-Press
