By Tumusiime Godwin
In a resounding testament to his unwavering dedication to justice and democracy, Mugisha Haffiizu has been elected among the top leaders of Uganda’s formidable opposition party, the National Unity Platform (NUP), Europe Chapter. This momentous announcement, made yesterday, marks a significant step in bolstering the party’s presence in the diaspora and strengthening its commitment to advocating for democratic principles.
A senior official from NUP headquarters praised Mugisha’s activism, noting his consistent efforts to defend human rights and amplify the voices of marginalized communities. “His leadership in the EU Chapter Committee is exactly what we need at this critical time for Uganda,” the official stated.
Mugisha’s political journey began as a dedicated supporter of the National Resistance Movement (NRM). However, he later switched allegiance to the People Power movement—now represented by NUP—citing a need to stand with those fighting for genuine democratic change and against the backdrop of Uganda’s shrinking democratic space and ongoing human rights abuses.
Uganda’s democratic space has been shrinking steadily over the past decade, a trend that has prompted many young Ugandans like Mugisha to actively seek roles in leadership and advocacy. The closure of civic spaces, crackdowns on dissent, and the stifling of independent media have fueled a surge in political consciousness among the youth, many of whom see leadership as a vehicle to amplify their demands for accountability and justice.
The newly constituted NUP EU Chapter Committee now includes the following elected leaders:
- Leader/Chair: Mr. Robert Kitunzi
- Deputy Chair: Mr. Haffiizu Mugisha
- Secretary: Mrs. Maureen Kittengo
- Treasurer: Mr. Joe WhalouXhaso
Committee Mobilizers:
- Mr. Kisaaco Emmanuel NNunguli
- Mr. Beker Musanje
- Mrs. Marie Mubyei
Committee Advisors:
- Jeremy Katatumba
- Brandon Sekitto
- Aligo Francis
- Rebecca Naava
Mrs. Marie Mubyei’s appointment, announced during the recent committee meeting, was also widely celebrated. Based in Switzerland, Mubyei is lauded for her dedication to the struggle for democracy, with many believing her energy and charisma will add great value to the team.
The National Unity Platform has emerged as a dominant force in Uganda’s political landscape, capturing the imagination of the country’s youth and marginalized communities. Its message of inclusivity, justice, and resistance to autocracy has resonated widely, making it the most significant opposition bloc in recent years. Today, NUP enjoys massive support among young Ugandans both at home and in the diaspora, who view the party as a genuine alternative to the status quo.
This leadership appointment, along with the reconstitution of the EU Chapter Committee, is expected to strengthen the NUP’s organizational capacity in Europe and build momentum for the party’s push for democratic reforms in Uganda. With the 2026 elections on the horizon, the committee’s focus is to mobilize the diaspora and champion the cause of a more inclusive and accountable government back home.
Observers say Mugisha’s election symbolizes a growing movement within the NUP, as the party leverages the energy and activism of the diaspora to advocate for a smooth democratic transition and an end to Uganda’s cycle of impunity. Many see this as a crucial step in bridging the gap between the diaspora and domestic political movements, forging a united front in the struggle for democratic reforms.
