Africa-Press – Uganda. A significant political shift is underway in Kampala’s Lubaga Division as over 100 former National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters have defected to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), citing neglect and frustration with their former party.
The defectors were formally welcomed into the NRM during a ceremony held in Kabowa, where Minister for Kampala, Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, praised their decision and reaffirmed the party’s commitment to inclusivity and grassroots engagement.
“You have made a courageous choice,” Minister Kabanda told the defectors.
“The NRM is a party for all Ugandans, and we are ready to listen to your concerns and work together to address them. Your presence strengthens the NRM in Lubaga and beyond.”
Kabanda also reassured the new members against political intimidation and urged them to help mobilize further support from their former political affiliations.
She appealed to long-standing NRM members to remain patient and united as the party prepares for the next political term.
Mbaziira Bulldozer, NRM spokesperson for Lubaga Division and former parliamentary candidate, attributed the defections to the party’s visible achievements in the community.
“People can see what the NRM is doing—from infrastructure development to service delivery. Our actions speak louder than slogans,” he said.
Mbaziira revealed that the party is rolling out initiatives, including income-generating projects, aimed at empowering the new members and ensuring they benefit tangibly from the NRM’s leadership.
Several defectors expressed disappointment with NUP, accusing the opposition of abandoning grassroots mobilizers after the 2021 general elections and failing to deliver on its promises.
“We worked hard to build the party on the ground, but we were forgotten when it mattered most,” one defector said.
“We are now joining a party that listens and acts.”
This mass defection marks a notable political development in Lubaga, traditionally an opposition stronghold, and signals growing cracks within the NUP as the NRM seeks to deepen its urban support ahead of the next general elections.
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